Founder’s Favorite: Q&A with BLK & Bold co-founders on the ‘21-’22 basketball Season

It’s a good time at BLK & Bold HQ because basketball is back! Basketball season has always been special to long-time friends and co-founders, Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson, and the May announcement of a beverage licensing partnership between BLK & Bold and the NBA added an extra layer of excitement on top.

Notorious for the friendship behind the business, Pernell and Rod played many pick-up basketball games together back in the day. So, what better way to kick off the season than to catch up with them over a cup of The Warm Up to talk about the upcoming season, what they’re most excited about, and more. 

Need to warm up for basketball season? Shop the NBA x BLK & Bold collaboration brew: The Warm Up online today!

Q & A with Rod and Pernell, Co-founders of BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages

What’s your favorite basketball team and why?

ROD: Los Angeles Lakers. When Michael Jordan retired, I needed a new team to root for and the new kid on the block was Kobe Bryant. I gravitated toward him and consequently I cheered for the Lakers for the next 20 years. Can’t abandon ship after that long of a commitment. 

PERNELL: Golden State Warriors. Steph Curry is unreal 

What was your favorite moment from last season?

ROD: Watching the NBA welcome back fans after a year in “The Bubble.” Nothing like the cheers and boos while watching the game. 

PERNELL: Watching the Phoenix Suns make it to the finals.  

Who or what are you most excited to see on the court this season?

ROD: The Lakers. I hope they mesh well considering they have a few new pieces with big personalities. 

PERNELL: (1) Klay Thompson's return to the Warriors and (2) the new "Lake-show" Lakers.

What's your favorite way to enjoy The Warm Up?

ROD: Hot, with a seasonal non-dairy creamer. 

PERNELL: Pour Over!

Which of you is better at basketball?

ROD: Is this really a question?! Me, of course. 

PERNELL: ....middle-aged Rod can't guard me. He would run out of PTO trying to recover.

Shop The Warm Up

BLK & Bold HQ is abuzz with talk about this season, The Warm Up, and the impact the NBA beverage licensing partnership will have on the amount of support they can provide to their 5% For Our Youth pledge partners. 

In May, the NBA pledged to double the impact by matching all BLK & Bold’s 5% For Our Youth donations that come as a result of NBA licensed coffee purchases. Shop The Warm Up today to contribute to the cause!