Tomeka Holyfield’s vision to bring together groundbreaking women and community leaders to celebrate legendary women in basketball, on the sidelines of the WNBA All Star weekend, came to reality at the Indianapolis Arts Garden on July 17th. The She’s Got Now Empowerment Awards Luncheon which spotlighted women who redefine success, leadership, and community upliftment was an experience of impact, inspiration and leadership.
Local business owners, including Engaging Solutions, The Mind Trust, Indy Bosses, Indy Urban League, and others, supported the initiative, showing their commitment to the empowerment of women and girls. The Luncheon kicked off the She’s Got Now movement, which is a platform honoring those who are leading boldly and building legacy in real time.
Honored at the event were icons, including the First WNBA player, Sheryl Swoopes as the 2025 Slam Dunk Glass Ceiling Breaker Award. Swoopes reflected on being the first and the importance of paving the way for those coming behind on the journey. She encouraged the audience, especially the young ladies who were in attendance, to continue to show up authentically and to believe in themselves. Her encouragement was met with appreciation as she shared her gratitude for her journey and seeing the progress leading to where the “W” is today.
Head Coach Dawn Thornton, known for her bold and unapologetic outfits and dedication to coaching, was awarded the 2025 Slam Dunk Courtside Disrupter Award. Former WNBA Sacramento player and Sports Agent Ticha Penicheiro was awarded the 2025 Slam Dunk Business & Basketball Award.
WNBA Legend and Olympic Gold winner, Tamika Catchings, was awarded the 2025 Slam Dunk Hometown Hero Award. Catchings reminded the audience to be present in the moment and recognized the former WNBA players in the room for their dedication and contribution to women’s basketball and sports as a whole. The President & CEO of the Recorder Media Group, Robert Shegog, received the 2025 Slam Dunk Connector Award.
“We are no longer waiting for the right time,” said Tomeka Holyfield, President & CEO of The Helppp Agency Group and creator of the NBA All-Star Gospel Celebration and the She’s Got NOW Empowerment Awards Luncheon. “The time is now, and this event honors the women who understand that their moment isn’t coming, it’s already here.”
The She’s Got Now Empowerment luncheon was a moment of unforgettable energy and impact. The She’s Got Now Empowerment Awards Luncheon was more than a convening of powerhouse women in sports and business. Those who took center stage are changemakers, pioneers making space and creating a seat at the table for women and girls. It was an embodiment of what it looks like when women lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. The Empowerment Luncheon proved that the movement has started with a clear message, “The time is now, it isn’t coming, it’s already here.” And we felt every moment of it.
