What an absolutely incredible journey dancing in the NBA has been the last three seasons! It feels like just yesterday I was walking into Time Warner Cable Arena for my very first audition to be an NBA dancer! I can’t believe how fast time has flown by since making the team my first year. I wasn’t even living in Charlotte when I made the team but quickly packed my bags and moved to the Queen City. Little did I know, I would soon call it home!
The three years I’ve been on the team have made history, and I’m so honored to have been a part of both the LadyCats and Honey Bees! My first two years on the team as a LadyCat were so much fun. I’m so thankful for a host of opportunities. I got to travel internationally for my very first time to Taiwan, participate in my first-ever photo and calendar shoots, walk in a swimsuit fashion show, as well as sit on the court and cheer on our Charlotte Bobcats NBA basketball team! After making the team I knew I was in for the ride of my life, but what I didn’t know was how many amazing friends and sisters I would make. I can truly say I’ve met so many wonderful people and phenomenal women that will one day be my bridesmaids. Dance made us sisters on the court but we’ve also become best friends off the court. Over the years, the bonds and friendships have only grown stronger.
This third season for me has been one I’ll remember forever as Charlotte made history bringing back the Charlotte Hornets and the Buzz! Trying out for a spot in the return of the Honey Bees was even more pressure than tryouts had been my first two years. I was so honored the night I found out I’d get to continue my passion as a Honey Bee for my third season! There are so many monumental moments from this season that I’ll truly cherish the rest of my life. The bonds with my teammates, interactions with the fans, community initiatives and in-game moments seemed so much more special this season knowing it would be my last. The fans were always amazing and a part of the game I especially loved, but this season seemed different.
I want to thank all the fans for welcoming back the Charlotte Hornets and Honey Bees with open arms and creating an unforgettable season. Through Buzz Fest, the new Hornets court reveal, and of course Opening Night, the fans were incredible. The Hive really came Alive! I truly appreciate every picture, high five, wave, little fan blowing me a kiss, and little hug I received from a fan. For me, games were honestly amazing and I loved dancing with my sisters, but it was the little moments that meant the most. For me, it was crazy that a picture with me or my autograph was important to someone! The Hornets definitely have the absolute BEST fans, and you all made my journey one I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. Thank you for those little moments that made me smile every single game. I feel like I became a part of the Hornets legacy and family.
I’m retiring this year to pursue my dream job as a High School Varsity Cheerleading Coach and commit to that wholeheartedly! During my last game on the court I’m sure I’ll be an emotional mess but I’ll be looking for extra waves and high fives. I want to leave by saying thank you to my amazing coach, Brandii McCoy, and the whole Charlotte Hornets organization for believing in me, challenging me and letting me be a part of your family the last three seasons! To my sweet family, thank you for supporting me and believing in my dream. Thank you so much for coming to games each season to see me dance. It truly meant the world having you there to cheer me on! Thank you fans for welcoming me and for letting me get to know so many of you. It’s crazy how you get to know Swarm 365 Members and see some of the same people at every single game. You really are the BEST fans in the NBA. To my teammates that are retiring with me, I love each of you and hope your last game on the court is as incredible and special as I know mine is going to be. Stop and enjoy those little moments! Dance your heart out and leave it all out on the court as we like to say! To my teammates that are continuing their journey of dancing next season, I wish you the best of luck and keep believing in your dreams. Enjoy the games and know it flies by. Cherish the little moments, appreciate each other and make us proud. I’ll definitely miss you all but you’ll see me in the crowd with the fans next season! Thank you again from the bottom of my heart!
With Much Love,
Honey Bee Kristin