It seems the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show is already stirring controversy, and we’re not even close to February. Roc Nation Sports’ Super Bowl Party is set to return to New Orleans for the second time, but fans are more focused on who won’t be taking the stage. Despite his deep connection to the city, Roc Nation Sports passed over Lil Wayne for Kendrick Lamar, leaving many fans disappointed. And it didn’t take long for some to point fingers at Jay-Z, founder of Roc Nation. But NBA star and New Orleans-born Lou Williams is stepping in, trying to cool the heat aimed at the 54-year-old rapper.

Lou Williams and comedian Spank Horton broke down the situation on The Underground Lounge last night. The  3-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year was quick to address the backlash, saying he doesn’t get why people are coming after Jay-Z. “Because Jay-Z is the guy that’s spearheading this effort. Honestly, y’all think he’s one person making this decision?” Williams questioned. He then went on to highlight that, while the Renegade singer’s involvement is vital, “There’s obviously a board of people making these decisions.”

Williams, who also shared a unique relationship with Jay Z, however, further acknowledged the discontent among fans, particularly given Wayne’s status as one of the all-time greats. “I appreciate that this many people care so much,” he said, referring to Wayne’s GOAT status.

So both men are holding out hope that Wayne might still join the event, as there’s plenty of time left before the big game. But Wayne and Jay-Z’s history isn’t smooth.

Back in 2006, Wayne declared in an interview with Complex, “I’m better than [Jay Z].” This bold statement added fuel to their rivalry, making the current situation even more complicated.

And if the Lil Wayne snub wasn’t enough, former Young Money star Nicki Minaj seemed to throw shade at Jay-Z. “Denying a young black man what he rightfully put into this game for no other reason but your ego,” she commented. Now, with Wayne himself speaking out, the controversy only deepens.

Lou William’s GOAT speaks out on the snub

After the news broke that Kendrick Lamar would headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, Lil Wayne didn’t hold back his feelings. In a candid Instagram post, the 41-year-old rapper opened up about being overlooked in his own hometown. “[Not being picked] hurt a whole lot,” Wayne shared. “I thought there was nothing better than that spot, on that platform, on that stage, in my city, so it hurt.”

Despite his disappointment, Wayne was quick to express gratitude for the flood of support from his fans. “Your words turned into arms and held me up when I tried to fall back,” he said. “Like I said, it broke me, and I’m just trying to put me back together.”

Admitting that part of his pain came from feeling like he had let his fans down, Wayne reassured them that he’s still pushing forward. “I’m working on me, and I’m working, so thank you,” he said.

In the comments section, fellow artists rallied around Wayne. Chance the Rapper called him “the greatest” and expressed deep appreciation for his influence, while Machine Gun Kelly offered a different perspective, calling this moment “the rebirth” of Lil Wayne.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.