My Experience Covering Fanatics Fest as Media

One of the most iconic festivals that anyone could attend.

That is what I think of when you talk about Fanatics Fest, a sports festival held over a four-day stretch in New York City, consisting of panels, events, games, and photo ops with all kinds of athletes.

This was my first time attending the event as media, and it certainly won't be my last.

The very first day was Thursday, July 16, and it was a madhouse. There were lots of long lines trying to get in and even to acquire my credentials. I saw a bunch of media people there from the local area, ESPN, NFL Network, CBS, and much more. Celebrities attended the event, such as Kevin Hart, Marcello Hernandez, Tiffany Haddish, and many more, all of whom I saw and talked to over the four days I was there.

However, Thursday was extremely busy, and the first event I attended was the "Mind the Game" podcast with LeBron James and Tyrese Haliburton. I also saw ESPN's own Ramona Shelburne, which was amazing. I thought we might get an answer on where James would go, but to no avail.

I continued to take photos and videos of the event, which you can see on my Instagram, @cjdsports34. The event consisted of three levels of vendors selling and buying cards, along with lots of stages where talent appeared throughout the day.

Friday wasn't as busy but was very productive, as I headed to Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe, Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson, and Joe Johnson. The guests on the show were Roman Reigns and Jalen Brunson. WWE Superstars were heavily featured at Fanatics Fest. I took photos and videos as media and then went to take more photos of athletes and talent.

To name a few: Charlotte Flair, Rossi, Dennis Rodman, David Wright, Mike Piazza, and Allen Iverson himself! I even snuck in a few words with "The Answer."

The highlight of the day was meeting Stephen A.'s nephew, Josh, and getting a quick video chat with him about his Knicks!

Saturday was the busiest and most rewarding day of the Fest. My feet were absolutely barking. However, I was able to network, take more photos, and talk to some interesting people. I sat behind the scenes on two Cold as Balls Netflix episodes and got a chance to hand out a bunch of business cards, including one to Kevin Hart.