As the stars piled into Madison Square Garden for the 2015 NBA All-Star game, the introductions kicked off with a tribute to the hosting city, New York. Featuring The Rockettes and Christina Aguilera, the game’s kickoff also included a hip-hop homage to the great NYC by none other than Nas. After a medley by the popstar and Voice judge, Nas emerged for a performance of “N.Y. State Of Mind.” Fitting for the game’s return to MSG since the event was last held there in 1998, the Queens emcee rounded out a multi-faceted representation of the city. After his performance, Nas took to Twitter for some hometown love:
NEW YORK CITY, I LOVE YOU!!!
— Nasir Jones (@Nas) February 16, 2015
Watch the full 2015 NBA All-Star intro above, skip to the 4:03 mark for Nas’ appearance.