NowVIZ_ZACH COLLINS by NowVIZ magazine

On location in Las Vegas, Nevada, with NBA power forward Zach Collins who starts this upcoming season with the Chicago Bulls. Cover photo by Andrea Mead Cross.

INTRO

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FIRST STORY THE RA RA

STORY RA ROOM

SECOND STORY ZACH

STORY ZACH

THIRD NOVA

WAV

STORY

INTRO

INTRO AD

JUSTIN

fourth STORY

STORY JUSTIN

NOVA WAV PRODUCTION SONGWRITING DUO

JUSTIN REID NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

RICHARD MILLE X FERRARI

ZACH COLLINS CHICAGO BULLS

NOWVIZ

Opens its first flagship outside of Sydney,

Richard Mille and Ferrari Unveil

RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph

Sydney, Australia

STORY

Chronograph

The RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds

Chronograph Ferrari marks the latest achievement in the ongoing collaboration between Richard Mille and Ferrari. Following their groundbreaking RM UP-01 Ultraflat Ferrari in 2022, this new creation reinvents the complex tourbillon split-second chronograph format.

Ferrari’s Centro Stile played a pivotal role in shaping the watch’s aesthetic, contributing details such as the crown, hands and strap, which echo the styling of Ferrari’s Purosangue seats. The open movement architecture highlights a titanium plate engraved with Ferrari’s Prancing Horse logo, inspired by the rear wing of the 499P. This intricate design showcases microblasted and satin-finished surfaces with polished bevels, demonstrating the masterful craftsmanship that defines Richard Mille.

The new RM 43-01 incorporates multiple features inspired by Ferrari’s engineering excellence. Its design draws parallels with the automotive brand’s engine blocks and crankcases, using angular structures, raised ridges, contrasting finishes, and golden hexagonal screws to echo Ferrari’s industrial precision.

Lewis Hamilton

On the dial, the clutch wheel of a V8 engine influences the barrel jewel setting, while models such as the 488 Challenge Evo and SF90 Stradale inspire the case styling and pushers. The skeletonized 30-minute totalizer on the dial mirrors the prominence of a tachometer on a modern Ferrari dashboard, completing the watch’s three-dimensional visual appeal.

Hamilton chose number 44 for his karting career, and it has remained with him throughout his Formula 1 journey, even when he became world champion. The number 44 extends beyond the car for Hamilton, with his charity, “Mission 44,” also bearing the number.

Equipped with a 70-hour power reserve, torque indicator and off-center tourbillon escapement, the caliber delivers precision and innovation. Designed in collaboration with Audemars Piguet Le Locle, the movement introduces refinements that optimize power consumption and durability.

Limited to 75 pieces each, RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is offered in microblasted titanium and Carbon TPT® case builds. The two variants also echoes the drivers representing Ferrari at the 2025 Formula One— Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc—with the titanium version reflecting a “gentleman driver” ethos, while the carbon version exude a high-octane attitude.

Charles Leclerc

In conclusion, the Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is seen as a successful and exciting collaboration that pushes the boundaries of watchmaking, combining high performance, intricate engineering, and a strong dose of Ferrari’s iconic design language. Its exclusivity and technical prowess make it a compelling choice for collectors who appreciate the fusion of horology and motorsports.

Launches a new multi-purpose office in Harumi, Tokyo, as its official headquarters

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NOT A HOTEL announced the opening of its new multi-purpose NOT A HOTEL OFFICE in Harumi, Tokyo. This expansive, warehouse-like space will serve as the company’s official headquarters, despite its remote-workfirst philosophy. Designed by NOT A HOTEL ARCHITECTS, the office layout includes diverse workspaces, event areas, and meeting rooms, all crafted to embody the company’s distinct worldview.

Harumi bridge, Harumi District,Tokyo, Japan.

The main common area boasts a remarkable 15-meter-long wooden table, serving as a central point for both office work and events. Cassina’s black block stools, a collaboration with Virgil Abloh, are arranged around this imposing table, adding a touch of contemporary design. This 40-meterdeep space is designed to foster spontaneous interaction, allowing diverse ideas and people to converge. The office also includes 36 free-address desks and four quiet pods, combining openness with functionality. A meeting space with a dark gray kitchen, equipped with the same high-end appliances and cutlery as NOT A HOTEL properties, rounds out the dynamic environment.

The new office serves as both a laboratory and a creative hub where NOT A HOTEL can experiment with novel work methods and envision future products and services. Its design promotes flexible adaptation, encouraging all members to collaborate and innovate. A standout feature of the new headquarters is The NIGO Lounge, an exclusive event and workspace produced by internationally renowned creative director NIGO®. This private lounge is reserved solely for owners of NOT A HOTEL properties, offering a unique, limited experience for one group per day. Equipped with state-of-the-art smokeless yakiniku grills and back kitchens for meal preparation, it’s designed to host intimate dinners and parties.

Inside The NIGO Lounge, NIGO’s personal design sensibilities are evident. A massive storage wall, consisting of 284 units of the Swiss USM Haller modular furniture system (a long-time favorite of NIGO’s), is stacked high in a U-shape. This meticulous organization provides both functionality and a striking visual backdrop. The NOT A HOTEL OFFICE also prominently features an authentic Jean Prouvé 6×6 Demountable House from 1944, imported directly from France. This historic structure, filled with vintage French modernist furniture, reflects NOT A HOTEL’s minimalist design philosophy and perfectly captures their ethos of “living anywhere.”

Furthermore, the office acts as a display for NIGO’s personal collection of rare items and features PRATONE lounge chairs, blending a functional workspace with elements of a curated art gallery. This innovative office design truly embodies NOT A HOTEL’s forward-thinking approach to work and hospitality.

Display wall for NIGO’s personal collection of rare items.

NOT A HOTEL OFFICE CROSS DOCK HARUMI, 1F Harumi 4-7-4 Chūō-ku, Tokyo-to 104-0053

ZACH

When people imagine the lives of professional athletes, they often picture unrelenting routines, strict diets, and convoluted schedules that leave the athlete no room for anything else in their lives. While this may be true for some, for Chicago Bulls power forward Zach Collins, the key to success has always been refreshingly simple.

Collins learned early in his career that three things mattered most: Keep it about the work, deliver on the court, and never skip the gym. That formula has carried him from a sports-loving kid in Nevada to an NBA player with an impressive career on the rise.

Although Collins participated in various sports growing up, by the age of 10, he recognized that basketball was the right path for him. By high school, it was clear he had what it took to be a star player. When several major colleges came calling during his junior year, he ultimately committed to Gonzaga University, where he proved to be a key player in the school’s highest-ranked recruiting class in history.

Collins continued to sharpen his talent even more when the seven-foot player entered the 2017 NBA draft and landed with the Portland Trail Blazers. Lining up alongside veteran players he’d long admired, Collins was quick to pick up their advice on keeping things simple and focusing on putting in the effort.

Much of this discipline had already been instilled in him as a boy, so he was quick to adapt. His father, Michael, a former New Mexico State player whose career ended early due to injury, coached Collins as a kid. Both Michael and Collins’ mother, Heather, taught their sports-loving son that consistent effort and a determined attitude pays off. It was advice that would prove invaluable during Colins’ four seasons with the Blazers. Though he proved to be a solid defender who posted an impressive blocking percentage of 2.3% during the 77 games he played in the 2018-19 season, he was dogged by lengthy spells of injury throughout his Rip City career. Instead of letting frustration win, however, he doubled down on recovery, sticking to doctors’ orders and implementing small but powerful adjustments to his lifestyle. Learning from those around him, he brought in a chef, improved his sleep habits, and streamlined his daily routine, all of which helped him keep his game—and his recovery— front and center.

In 2021, Collins signed with the San Antonio Spurs. He spent four seasons there building up his game, before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in early 2025. His impact with his new team was immediate; within three games, he began logging major minutes. Securing a spot in the starting lineup, he has since delivered the strong performances that spotlight exactly why the Bulls selected him.

Now, at just 27, Collins is proving that staying grounded can be a competitive advantage. While nothing is ever certain with professional sports, the determined player’s steady approach of working hard, keeping it simple, and giving his all on the court has positioned him as a long-term asset to the Bulls. And if his journey so far is anything to go by, that simplicity might just be his secret weapon.

NowVIZ: Will you talk about yourself as an individual and NBA player from Las Vegas? How did your basketball journey begin?

Collins: I started playing basketball when I was probably five or six years old, going to the courts and playing with my friends. Then, I started playing in basketball leagues and club ball by the time I was like nine or ten. I also played some baseball, but once I was around ten, it was all basketball. I played a lot of tournaments in California and Arizona and went to Florida for my first big tournament when I was 10 years old. When I went to high school, I played for two basketball clubs, Vegas Elite and Dream Vision. The last club team I played with was Team Fast on the Adidas circuit; that’s where I got the most exposure. It was a really good team, and we won a lot of games. I had a lot of fun and have a lot of fond memories playing there. My dad also coached me as a kid on a lot of the club teams. From that point I wasn’t sure if I was going to continue playing ball after high school, but I kept growing into my body, kept maturing, and became more coordinated. I started getting better and better and really began to work at it. Then, in my junior year, I committed to playing ball at Gonzaga University.

NowVIZ: You started in the NBA after playing a year for the Gonzaga University Bulldogs. You were drafted in 2017 by the Sacramento Kings 10th overall pick and then traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. You played four seasons with the Blazers and then joined the San Antonio Spurs for four seasons. And now, with your most recent move to the Chicago Bulls, will you talk about how you’ve been able to navigate the NBA and what your experience has been like?

Collins: When I was growing up watching the NBA, you looked at all these players like celebrities, kind of like a movie, and something I could never attain. Then when I got to the NBA, it kind of looked easy from far away, but then you realize real quick how much work it is. During my rookie year the schedule we had was insane, playing games every single day. You get even more play time because you’re not really playing in the main games yet. So it was more games than I had ever played in my life, and it was really eye-opening how much work it was. But as my body started to adapt and I got use to the regime, I actually wanted to work more!

As far as navigating the NBA, it’s been fine for me. I’ve had a good circle of people around me and great parents that raised me. It helped watching them work hard in their careers because it instilled in me that hard work pays off. I also just like to keep things simple. I was able to learn as a rookie from a great group of veterans while I was at the Portland Trail Blazers. I learned to keep it about the work, the performance on court, and staying in the gym. I believe that following this type of work ethic is how and why I’ve been able to stay in the NBA.

Behind the scenes in Las Vegas with ZACH COLLINS.

“I learned to keep it about the work, the performance on court, and staying in the gym.”

NowVIZ: Since joining the Chicago Bulls in February, the word is you not only have fit in seamlessly with head coach Billy Donovan’s uptempo style of play, but you’ve given the team an agile but physical presence they previously lacked in the post. Sounds like you’re adjusting well in Chicago!

Collins: Yeah, it’s been a great fit. It’s also been a good time for me to go to Chicago, both personally and professionally. I had a great time in both Portland and San Antonio, and I’ve only been traded once in my career, which has been a blessing. There are guys in the League that have been traded 2-3-4-5 times in only a couple seasons. So I’ve been very lucky and fortunate to be a part of some great locker rooms. It’s just been another part of the journey.

On the flip side, I was also very nervous going to Chicago. I wanted to prove that I belong on this team and to show that I have the ability to help the team win. For me as a player, it’s about convincing your teammates and your coaches that you can help to win games. The coaching staff was very direct with me and told me to be patient. They wanted to work me in, but they also had a lot of guys there at the time; they were trying to figure things out, and trying to get to the playoffs all at the same time. That was one thing I loved about Billy (Donovan)—he was straightforward and communicated very, very clearly what his plan was for me. Early on, I was fortunate to get that opportunity to get on the court, and I hit the ground running. Once I got that playing time and got into the lineup—it stuck! So it was great.

“I had a great time in both Portland and San Antonio, and I’ve only been traded once in my career, which has been a blessing.”

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On set in Las Vegas with ZACH COLLINS and photographer Andrea Mead Cross.

“I have a lot of personal drive and motivation to prove myself and show I can help teams win.”

NowVIZ: Every top athlete seems to have or has had a mentor, friend, or just someone in their corner to offer guidance. We wondered if you do and how have they helped?

Collins: I’ve definitely had a few. The most consistent mentors have been my mom and dad. My dad’s been more hands-on. He played, and he’s been able to teach me a lot, even off the court. I look up to him in so many ways as both a player and a man, and I watch how he carries himself. But yeah, both my parents have just been there. Anytime something goes wrong or I’m stressed about something, I usually just go to my friends or my parents. All have been super active in my life, very supportive, and there for me.

I also wouldn’t be here without the people who were around me in my rookie year. Ed Davis was a huge mentor for me. He explained a lot of the NBA in’s and out’s—the business side and on court. And from a guy who didn’t talk as much as I should, I learned a lot from him about how important talking is. Evan Turner was a big mentor for me when I was with the Blazers. I’ve had a lot of really, really great veteran players help and teach me along the way. A lot of what has shaped me and how I play today happened at Portland, and a lot of those guys are still my mentors to this day— I still talk to them, so it’s awesome.

NowVIZ: How do you fuel your body nutritionally throughout the season? Is there a specific diet or regime you follow?

Collins: The team does a really good job in this area. We have a nutritionist, we have body comp tests, and we have blood tests to see what reacts well with our bodies and what doesn’t, what might cause inflammation, and what doesn’t. Once we get all that data, they tell us what foods would be best and what we should stay away from. Then it’s our responsibility to maintain that focus. Again, early in my career, I had a great group of veteran players that helped guide me, and they all had chefs. So I made it a point to get a chef too. It’s expensive, but it’s also an investment in your body and career. And I don’t cook, so it took that stress away. I have the team nutritionist communicate with my chef at all times. My diet does fluctuate a little based on play-time—if my minutes are up, the diet kind of changes with more calories and vice versa. So having that chef available for snacks, dinners, etc. has been an incredible addition for me for sure. I also try to stay hydrated and get as much sleep as I possibly can. Sleep was one thing I’ve had to get better at. As a young kid coming into the NBA, I didn’t get enough, so that’s been huge.

Really, I just try to stay away from the bad stuff, and eat as much good stuff as I can. I’ve never been afraid of vegetables or fish or anything like that. I don’t do a lot of fancy stuff, even though my palate has grown since I’ve been in the NBA, I try to keep it pretty simple.

NowVIZ: As a top player, how do you stay in control of your game mentally when you’re on court?

Collins: That’s one thing about the NBA, it’s tough. You could play a great game one day, and two days later, possibly play a bad game. The good part is that you have another game soon with the chance to correct it. In my opinion, it’s the most challenging part of playing the NBA; it’s difficult to be consistent. So what helps me is that I try to make sure my everyday routine stays the same. I try to find that balance between maintaining consistency, but also keeping some variety so I don’t get burned out. It helps my performance level stay high and prepares my body when it’s time to lock in on game day.

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NowVIZ: What motivates you on a daily basis?

Collins: I have a lot of personal drive and motivation to prove myself and show I can help teams win. I also continue to work hard and have pride in staying healthy, so I can continue to play for as long as I choose.

I want to continue proving to the great circle of family and friends around me, prove them right. You know, if I’ve had a bad game or bad stretch, I know they’re still defending me when people are talking trash.

And then there’s that layer of proving to the people who hate, proving them wrong. You know, we all have haters in life, so it’s always a little extra fuel. But for the most part, the two main things motivating me are to push myself as hard as I can and mentally lock in for as long as possible to play this game for as long as I enjoy it!

NowVIZ: What’s your passion off the court?

Collins: I enjoy fashion. It’s always been a challenge for me to buy clothes because of my size. I have a stylist now who dresses me for games, which helps because I don’t have to worry about it. I love movies. I love hanging out with my family, my friends, and staying low-key. I’m getting a little older, but I still like playing video games with the boys back home. I also love getting outside—I have an ATV at home in Vegas. I love cars. I can’t fit in a lot of cars, but the ones I can fit into, I enjoy! So yeah, keeping it low-key and having a good time.

WAV

For more than a decade, ever since their 2012 breakout, “Loveeeeeee Song” by Rihanna, NOVA WAV has been working with some of the biggest musicians in the world to create massive hits that span R&B, pop, and hip-hop, from DJ Khaled’s “Just Us” to Nicki Minaj’s “Megatron” and Jazmine Sullivan’s Grammy-winning “Pick Up Your Feelings”. And in a pop scene dominated by men, they have done it as two young American Black women. You can catch them on the most recent Netflix series Hitmaker’s or an Adidas Originals campaign highlighting women in music. The duo isn’t on the rise, they are rolling at the top. Brittany “Chi” Coney grew up in Plant City, Florida and moved to Atlanta, Georgia at 14. She did not grow up in a house with a musical background, but she did play the alto sax in high school and was even in a marching band. Denisia “Blu June” Andrews was born in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and moved to Tallahassee. She did grow up in a house full of music where her whole family sang, and Blu was always singing.

The pair met through a mutual friend in music in 2009. Chi was posting tracks online, doing a music engineering internship at Grand Hustle, the rapper T.I.’s label in Atlanta, while she studied marketing at Georgia State University. Blu was in Tallahassee, freshly graduated from the University of North Florida with a degree in sports management. Chi got a message from the rapper Shawt Deezy, who had heard and liked her beats on MySpace years before. He said he was going to get a singer to do a vocal hook over Chi’s beats. The vocalist was Blu. “Her voice is incredible,” Chi says. “She just opens her mouth and God comes out.” Soon Blu and Chi were sending tracks directly to each other. Chi would send Blu a beat, and Blu would sing over it and send it back. Finally, in 2010, Blu called Chi and said let’s meet up! So Blu went to Atlanta. “It was like, this just feels right,” Blu says. Chi says, “I definitely met Blu in a past life.” It’s difficult to convey just how intertwined Blu and Chi are, but it’s what makes them so incredibly successful.

Fast forward to October 2012, they got word Rihanna was in the studio for a final week working on what would become Unapologetic. Blu and Chi flew to LA to take a placement meeting with her. “That’s when everything happened,” Blu says, and ultimately one of their tracks, “Loveeeeeee Song”, made it onto Unapologetic. “We were like, OK, everything’s about to happen,” Chi says. “We’re about to blow up.”

“You know, we always knew we belonged,” Chi says of those early years in the city. “We were just waiting on the world to catch up.” And the music world did catch up. In 2014 NOVA WAV worked not only with Ariana Grande, but also with Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson, Kehlani, DJ Khaled. The list has since become long and punctuated with platinum albums and Grammys. Instead of being asked by an artist to submit a handful of songs, they were being asked to come into the studio for a few days. “Usually our success comes from sitting down and working with people for a period of time,” Chi says. “We sat down and did a whole album with Teyana Taylor. Twice. We’ve sat down with Bey, we’ve sat down with Khaled. We just carry our energy, and the songs will kind of collect.”

They collaborated on Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s debut album as the Carters. They collaborated again, on some tracks for Beyoncé’s 2020 film, Black Is King. Then came Renaissance. Beyoncé’s album that is indelibly stamped with the NOVA WAV sound: big, juicy beats; flowing melodies; a feeling of empowerment. They worked eight tracks on the album including, “Pure/Honey”, “Summer Renaissance”, and “Alien Superstar”. And when “Cuff It” released as the second single on Renaissance it was a pure creative high for the duo. “Gotta put in the time, gotta put in the seed, then things gonna come up,” Chi says, beaming. And then she sings, “Beau-ti-ful.” “Cuff It” was deemed the best song of 2022 by NME and won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. It was validation that believing, perseverance, persistance, hard work, and most of all, loving what you do can lead to success.

NOVA WAV has evolved. They’re seasoned with successs, but still continue to grow. They are one as a duo that is forever creatively bonded. “We’re very spiritual people,” Chi says. “The Bible says that in the beginning was the Word and the Word was God. Right. So everything is about words and thoughts.” The stars have aligned for NOVA WAV and the duo continues to embrace the moment.

A sample of the artists and songs NOVA

WAV has been apart.

NowVIZ: Is it safe to say NOVA WAV is the partnership of two highly intelligent, creative women that have succeeded by going outside the box? Would you talk about your music journey?

NOVA WAV: Absolutely. We’ve always known we weren’t meant to fit inside a box; we were meant to create new ones. Our journey has been about trusting our gut, following the vibe, and never waiting for permission. From early days grinding behind the scenes to now collaborating with icons, it’s been all heart, all hustle, and a whole lot of faith. We’ve put in the hours, stayed authentic, and kept growing with every session.

NowVIZ: Would you discuss each other as individuals, and then what it is that creates the NOVA WAV dynamic?

Blu: Chi is a genius. She’s the kind of creative who can hear one note and already know where the whole record is headed. But it’s more than that; it’s discipline, passion, and her trust in the magic of music.

Chi: Blu? She’s a force. Her pen is poetic and powerful. She brings soul to every beat and vision to each project. What makes NOVA WAV dynamic is that we’re always locked in mentally, spiritually, and creatively.

NowVIZ: NOVA WAV continues their incredible work with top artists in music… How do you ingest each milestone?

NOVA WAV: We try to stay present. Every Grammy, every plaque, every #1 is a blessing. But instead of chasing the next thing immediately, we pause. We celebrate. We reflect. Then we ask, “Okay, how do we level up from here?” It’s never about ego; it’s about growth. We’re just getting started.

Chi and Blu in the studio.

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NowVIZ: Would you both talk about your musical influences growing up?

Blu: I grew up on soul, rap, and gospel. Tweet, Lauryn Hill, Kanye. Music that had something to say.

Chi: The thing was… I didn’t really grow up listening to a lot of music. I had maybe three CDs my whole life. Destiny’s Child’s, The Writing’s on the Wall, Ja Rule’s, Venni Vetti Vecci, and Jay-Z’s, Hard Knock Life Vol. 2— That was the soundtrack.

NowVIZ: Would you talk about some of the most challenging obstacles or time periods in the NOVA WAV timeline?

NOVA WAV: Oh, there were plenty. Early on, just being two Black women in rooms where people didn’t always take us seriously… that was an obstacle in itself. Getting our foot in the door took real persistence. There were times we were overlooked, underestimated, and even doubted. But instead of letting that break us, it built us. Those tough seasons made us sharper, more resilient, and even more committed to each other and our vision. We turned every “no” into fuel.

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“From early days grinding behind the scenes to now collaborating with icons, it’s been all heart, all hustle, and a whole lot of faith.”

NOVA WAV working with DJ Khaled.

“Early on (in our journey), just being two Black women in rooms where people didn’t always take us seriously… that was an obstacle in itself.”

Brittany “CHI” Coney

“What makes NOVA WAV dynamic is that we’re always locked in mentally, spiritually, and creatively.

NowVIZ: Is there an artist you haven’t had the chance to work with that might be on your bucket list?

NOVA WAV: Yes! We’ve been blessed to work with some of the greatest, but we’re always open to fresh energy. Working with Kendrick Lamar would be incredible. Also, Missy Elliott…Just iconic; her creativity has always inspired us. Lastly, we would love to work with Rihanna again; that would be a full circle moment for us!

NowVIZ: Even before going into the studio with an artist or beginning a new project, how do you initially prepare? Is there a common equation or process that has evolved for the best creative result?

NOVA WAV: We always tap in with spirit first. Whether it’s prayer, meditation, or just silence, it’s important we clear the noise. Then, we listen: to the artist’s vibe, to what’s happening in the world and to what the music needs to say. The process isn’t rigid and the energy flows.

“We always tap in with spirit first. Whether it’s prayer, meditation, or just silence, it’s important we clear the noise.”

BHS

On location in Los Angeles with NOVA WAV and photographer Andrea Mead Cross.

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NowVIZ: What is your motivation to wake up every day?

NOVA WAV: Purpose. We know this is bigger than us. We’re not just making records; we’re shifting culture, creating space, and inspiring the next wave of creatives. That keeps us grounded and hungry. We wake up ready to create something that’ll live long after we’re gone.

NowVIZ: What are your passions or interests outside of music?

Blu: Exploring entrepreneurial endeavors, philanthropy, and sports. Also, wellness. I’m big on mental health, mindfulness, and taking care of the whole self.

Chi: I love studying the universe, quantum physics, healing frequencies, and most importantly, spirituality.

NowVIZ: Is there anything upcoming that you’d like to tell us about?

NOVA WAV: Let’s just say…we’ve been cooking! We’ve got some major collaborations dropping this fall—projects that feel bigger than music. It’s art, it’s legacy, it’s purpose-driven. We can’t say too much yet, but trust: September and beyond is NOVA season.

NowVIZ: What footprint would you like NOVA WAV to leave behind?

NOVA WAV: Honestly? For us, it’s not just the songs or accolades—it’s the blueprint. We want young Black girls to look at us and say, “They did it. So I can, too.” That’s the legacy.

Ra Ra Room

Room

A glamorous new hotspot has taken up residence inside PHX Arena, redefining luxury hospitality and transforming the downtown Phoenix dining scene.

The Ra Ra Room, a members-only private dining club that opened in late November 2024, has quickly become one of the city’s most coveted reservations. As the first private dining club of its kind within a sports and entertainment venue, it offers an experience unlike any other. Discreetly positioned on the event level, its entrance is marked only by a single glowing martini glass—an understated symbol of the glamor that awaits within.

Open Thursday through Saturday, as well as during Phoenix Suns home games, select Phoenix Mercury games, and concerts, The Ra Ra Room welcomes guests from 5 p.m. until the last toast is made. Inside, members enjoy access to two private dining rooms, a plush lounge, a gourmet snack pantry, and a world-class wine and spirits collection that rivals any in the Valley.

The Ra Ra Room is a genius collaboration between Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia along with co-founders Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick, and Rich Torrisi of the world-renowned Major Food Group (MFG), the creative Force behind Carbone, ZZ’s Club, Dirty French, Sadelle’s, Contessa, Parm and Torrisi Bar & Restaurant. Together, they’ve created more than a restaurant— they’ve built an opulent and celebratory destination that transports members to the bygone era of fine dining.

Inside, diners are met with lush fabrics and Art Deco details that evoke the glamour of a Gatsby-era party. The design mirrors the venue’s cool, mysterious energy, equal parts luxurious and intimate. The menu is equally captivating, featuring inventive cocktails alongside MFG’s greatest hits including the Spicy Vodka Rigatoni, Veal Parmesan, Dressed King Crab, and more.

What truly sets The Ra Ra Room apart is its dedication to hospitality. From white-glove concierge service and valet parking to curated in-restaurant events and pre-sale ticket access to PHX Arena events, membership offers more than exclusivity—it offers an experience. One that seamlessly blends fine dining with the electric energy of live sports and entertainment, positioning The Ra Ra Room as a go-to destination for elevated evenings in downtown Phoenix. Whether it’s a pre-game dinner or a celebratory toast before a sold-out show, members enjoy unparalleled access and ambiance that turn a night out into something unforgettable.

The Ra Ra Room was born from a desire to elevate the dining experience in Phoenix.

World-class nightlife begins as the sun sets in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Raw Bar is also a hit. Dressed King Crab and Chilled Half Lobsters are also fan-favorites.

The Ra Ra Room is a luxurious, members-only space that feels both intimate and sophisticated.

Mouthwatering deserts and cocktails are outstanding.

Q&A with The Ra Ra Room’s General Manager,

Jared LoPriore

What inspired the creation of The Ra Ra Room, and how does it reflect Phoenix’s evolving hospitality scene?

LoPriore: The Ra Ra Room was born from a desire to elevate the dining experience in Phoenix. With Mat Ishbia’s vision and MFG’s pedigree, we wanted to create something that didn’t exist here in the valley. The Ra Ra Room is a luxurious, members-only space that feels both intimate and sophisticated. Phoenix is growing fast, and we’re proud to be part of its transformation into a world-class culinary destination.

How does membership enhance the experience beyond the food and ambiance?

LoPriore: Membership unlocks a full suite of benefits. It offers curated in-restaurant events, pre-sale access to arena tickets, white-glove concierge service, and valet parking. We create a seamless, unforgettable experience from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.

What are some standout dishes or drinks that members rave about?

LoPriore: Our Spicy Rigatoni Vodka and Veal Parmesan are MFG classics that never disappoint. The Raw Bar is also a hit. Dressed King Crab and Chilled Half Lobsters are also fan-favorites. And our cocktail menu is just as thoughtful, with seasonal creations that pair beautifully with the menu.

What kind of events or occasions is The Ra Ra Room best suited for?

LoPriore: From intimate dinners to celebratory nights out, it’s the perfect setting for pre-event gatherings, milestone moments, or romantic evenings. The space is versatile, and the energy shifts beautifully depending on the occasion.

How do you maintain a sense of exclusivity while still being part of a bustling arena environment?

LoPriore: That’s part of the magic. The Ra Ra Room is discreetly tucked away, so even on the busiest game nights, it feels like a hidden gem. The single martini glass at the entrance is the only clue.

Our cocktail menu is just as thoughtful, with seasonal creations that pair beautifully with the menu.

The Ra Ra Room is discreetly tucked away, so even on the busiest game nights, it feels like a hidden gem. The single martini glass at the entrance is the only clue. Tap into the experience at TheRaRaRoom.com

Ahascragh Distillery presents

Founded seven years ago by husband-andwife team Gareth and Michelle McAllister, Ahascragh (pronounced Ah-Hass-Crah) is Ireland’s first eco-distillery. By blending heritage with modern innovation, they aim to creat award-winning, zero-emissions whiskey and gin to be enjoyed around the world.From the outset, the McAllisters set out to break away from the industry’s fossil fuel-heavy past. But their vision for sustainability extended beyond production. When they discovered a derelict 18th-century mill in Ahascragh village, they saw potential—not just for a distillery, but for restoration. Instead of building new, they preserved the original stonework, salvaged old equipment, and even restored the old water wheel that once powered the mill. Then they set about creating their spirits.

The distillery’s Family Bond series has since earned global acclaim, featuring UAIS Irish Whiskey and Clan Colla Irish Whiskey. UAIS—named after the 4th-century High King of Ireland, Colla Uais, an ancestor of the McAllisters—is a bold triple blend of pot still, single malt, and grain whiskeys, aged in ex-bourbon and virgin oak casks. True to Ahascragh’s mission, the bottle is made from 100% recycled glass, with a recycled paper label, a sustainable wood stopper, and a biodegradable vegetable-based seal. “Sustainability is more than just switching energy sources,” says Gareth. “We source local ingredients, reduce water usage, and make every element of packaging as eco-friendly as possible.”

For the McAllisters, creating great spirits is just part of the mission—they want to show the world that sustainability and tradition can go hand in hand in the 21st century. By prioritizing local producers and carbonneutral operations, they’ve turned a small village distillery into a global brand—one that’s setting a new standard for the spirits industry.

For further information, cask-buying, or to locate stores near you supplying Ahascragh spirits— www.ahascraghdistillery.com

Clan Colla Irish Whiskey pays tribute to Colla Uais and his legendary two brothers who together led the Clan of Colla in a long-ago Ireland of heroes and High Kings. It’s a whiskey crafted with a nod to both the past and present —just like the the distillery itself.

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CLAN COLLA

An Irish Whiskey Making the Traditions of Tomorrow

XIN GIN

Blending European and Asian botanicals

Xin Gin reflects both Celtic and Oriental influences in its flavor and design, and has already earned top honors, including a Masters Medal Spirits Competition, and Best in Ireland at The Gin Guide Awards three years running. at The Global Gin Masters 2023, Double Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World

JUSTIN

“Justin’s won Super Bowls. How many great players in the NFL have never won a Super Bowl much less played in one? That’s a team accomplishment, and he’s a big part of that.”

Coach Benny Saia was the founding head football coach and athletic director at Dutchtown High School, in Geismar, Louisiana outside of Baton Rouge. Saia coached Justin and wasn’t surprised a bit by the success of the three-time Super Bowl player and two-time Super Bowl champion. He credits Justin’s success to his dedication and hard work ethic. “The most dedicated kid I’ve ever seen. He was constantly monitoring his schedule, kept a diary of what he ate, and charted all his work outs,” Saia said. “I mean, Justin works. He’s totally dedicated to whatever he’s trying to do, and that’s half the battle,” Saia said. “Justin deserves everything he’s gotten because he’s worked so hard to get to where he’s at.”

Reid began his NFL career after his junior year at Stanford, where he had been studying engineering. He entered the 2018 NFL Draft and was ranked as the top free safety prospect by DraftScout.com and ranked third best safety in the draft by Scouts Inc. and Sports Illustrated. He was selected by the Houston Texans in the third round as the 68th overall pick and during his rookie campaign immediately established himself as one of the best safeties in the NFL. Ranked sixth among all players at his position in passes defensed (10) while recording three interceptions, Reid went on to start 26 games for Houston compiling the second-most tackles (145) of any player on the Texans’ roster. Overall, Reid recorded 304 tackles, 23 passes defensed, 11 tackles-for-loss, seven interceptions, six quarterback hits and two forced fumbles during his time in Houston.

JUSTIN REID

Additionally in 2021, he was the Texan’s nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. Considered the league’s most prestigious honor, the award recognizes an NFL player for outstanding community service activities off the field, as well as excellence on the field. Reid has continued to give back by starting his own foundation, JReid InDeed . “The focus,” Reid says, “is on supporting disadvantaged youth and communities through interactive programs, community engagement, and technology access, across the Kansas City, Houston, and Baton Rouge areas.” It’s a demonstration of Reid’s strong character and passion off the field by helping the next generation access opportunites for their future.

After four successful seasons Reid left the Texans and in 2022 signed a three-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. While with the Chiefs, Reid helped the team advance to three Super Bowls, winning Super Bowls LVII and LVIII. In last season, he started all 16 games and led the secondary with 85 tackles, with five tackles for loss, two interceptions and nine pass breakups.

Now in his eighth season, Reid begins his next chapter in his hometown with the New Orleans Saints. On joining the Saints, he says, ”It was surreal at first, but it’s fun because the moment happens, you build excitement and it really takes, like, a day to sink in. That second day when I woke up and knew I was a Saint it really hit home, like, ‘This is happening now!’” Under defensive coordinator Brandon Staley the Saints’ defense is tailored to Reid’s game. “He runs a 3-4 defense but he mixes things up,” Reid said. “I love that. Not everything is the same thing over and over. He allows guys to be versatile, and I see myself as a versatile player that can play in a lot of different positions and cause some problems for an offense. So, I’m excited to be a weapon for him and go execute the defense in his vision.”

It’s proof postive that where ever Reid lands success is soon to follow and while his NFL career seems to be moving full circle, he still has plenty of room to grow. It’s how he’s lived his life, adjusting and working hard to produce that winning equation. It’s also that mindset that validates the respect he’s earned both on and off the field. This is Justin Reid’s time and he’s earned it.

“Whether it’s my hobbies, my foundation, fatherhood, or football, I put in 100%.”

NowVIZ: Will you talk about yourself as an individual and a pro football player from Louisiana? Please tell us how your football journey began.

Reid: I actually grew up wanting to be a soccer player. I really always liked playing a lot of different sports, so growing up, I played every sport that had a ball in it, and I was also on the swim team! By the time I got to high school, my older brother was having a ton of success playing football at Louisiana State University (LSU). It was during that time that my football coach grabbed me out of science class and convinced me to come out and play football for him. And I guess you could say it worked out pretty well! I ended up playing nickel safety and being the kicker for my high school team. I’ve always been super passionate about whatever I jump into. Whether it’s my hobbies, my foundation, fatherhood, or football, I put in 100%. I don’t really multitask all that well, but if I’m doing one thing at a time, I can do it at a pretty high level.

NowVIZ: You played with the Houston Texans for 3 years and the Kansas City Chiefs for 3 years as well. With the Chiefs, you had three Super Bowl trips, - emerging as Super Bowl Champions in two of them. Up to this point, will you talk about your experience as a pro athlete in the NFL and how you’ve chosen to navigate your path?

Reid: My first four years were kind of chaotic. Each year, there was so much turnover in the coaching staff that I had three head coaches at Houston. By the time I was in my third season, I was the longest tenured player on the team because the whole roster had flipped, except for the kicker. So it was difficult navigating with that kind of change and with no real consistency. It kind of put me in a leadership role early because I happened to be one of the guys there the longest.

It became a real challenge on the field. I mean, we were playing games each week, and I’m the type of guy that wants to throw myself into it, but not everyone around me cared as much. It was just a different type of space, you know what I mean? And that was a real gut check. It was having to learn how to be happy within myself when sports weren’t going so well as a team, you know? That’s actually when I started finding some outside fulfillment. I was still putting 110% on the field, but I also found enjoyment in other things like my foundation and other outside projects.

Then I went to the Kansas City Chiefs, and it was run like a tight ship! The way it was organized and structured, for me, it was going from one extreme to the other. But it was great because it brought consistency, and everybody knew their role. I was able to share my experiences as a leader on the field, talking about how to handle change and adversity. I feel like my Kansas City years were not only about how well I performed, it was also about helping each man be the best version of himself and the best player he could be, because it takes everybody at their best to win games.

Now that I’m at the New Orleans Saints, I feel like my role is to help bring some consistency and leadership to this team. To help build team confidence quickly so we can be successful as a team. I’m excited and up for the new challenge!

“My college coach at Stanford, Duane Akina, told me early in my career. he said that occasionally great players win, but the consistent player is the one you win championships with. That has stuck with me ever since.”

BTS

Behind the scenes with JUSTIN REID

NowVIZ: You are beginning your 8th season in the NFL and starting a new chapter playing with a new team, the New Orleans Saints! Will you talk about the upcoming season, your new team, and being home. After all, you’re now able to play in the same city your family lives in!

Reid: Yeah, I think it’s really nice that I’m able to do this at this stage of my career. As a veteran going into my eighth season, life has slowed down for me a bit. The NFL has become everyday life—essentially routine, having family around, and some support for my baby girl, so it’s really kind of nice. I’m also at a place where I can have a greater appreciation for it than if I was a young player.

NowVIZ: There is a resounding statement within the League that states,“Reid is one of the strongest leaders in the Kansas City locker room. Statistically, he is about as consistent as a player can be and he rarely misses a game. He always seems to put up 80 or more tackles a season and at 28 years old he will be a tremendous help to any team looking to ascend to playoff contention.” (You even jumped in as a kicker when they needed one!) Your thoughts?!

Reid: Yeah, two quick thoughts come to mind, especially on filling in as a kicker. Part of being on a championship team is doing whatever you can for the team. It’s not about me. And if you have a talent and a skillset that the team can use and your kicker gets hurt, (and I can kick), then I’m gonna go out there and do it! And secondly, there were two things my college coach at Stanford, Duane Akina, told me early in my career. The first thing was that he described me as being like a weapon and he wanted to make sure that I was always pointed in the right direction; that I was hurting the other team and not hurting our team. And secondly, he said that occasionally great players win, but the consistent player is the one you win championships with. That has stuck with me ever since. I pride myself on being consistent no matter what, because when you’re consistent, it builds confidence, trust, and it has a snowball effect.

REID played three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, played three Super Bowls, and won two Super Bowl championships!

NowVIZ: How do you feed your body nutritionally throughout the season? Do you have a diet or a specific regime that you like follow?

Reid: I do have a personal chef. I had a personal chef in Houston, and I had one in Kansas City, and I’m in the middle of searching for one right now in New Orleans. You know, there’s so much good food here, but not all of it is the best for you all the time. So I do have a chef that helps a lot with meal prep and making sure I have the right amount of calories, and then it’s just about making conscientious decisions. Like, I’m not overly critical of myself as far as the food choices of every meal of every day, but I just try and make smart choices based on whatever I’ve eaten over the last three days. You know what I mean? If I’ve eaten pretty well the last three days and I want a slice of cake, then I’ll have a slice of cake. But if I feel like, “Hey, I’ve eaten fast food twice in the last three days,” then I’ll, you know, I’ll skip out on those. So, it’s the little things like that, but having a chef more than anything really helps out making sure I’m eating and fueling my body correctly.

NowVIZ: How do you mentally prepare before you walk onto the field?

Reid: I try to do some things the same. I try to give the same or similar pregame speech before every game, because it gets everybody in that same mindset. People seem to feed off routine. You know what I mean? You don’t have to have a new dynamic speech for every game; it’s more about getting the guys ready to play. And the other part of it is doing whatever’s necessary to be prepared. As a young player, I was more, like, going over my notes. But now it’s about me helping the younger players get ready. Like, helping them go over key coaching points or specific plays we discussed earlier in the week. The guys do appreciate it and It puts us all on the same page. And when it does happen in the game, we’re ready for it.

ACTION

“If you commit to something, you need to follow through and do it—and do it with your best effort. That’s just how I live my life.”

BTS

On location in New Orleans with Justin Reid and photographer Andrea Mead Cross.

BTS

NowVIZ: You are continuing school at Stanford (School of Engineering) That’s incredibly impressive and validates how highly you regard education. Will you talk about your educational experience and why it’s important to you?

Reid: I did leave Stanford to enter the draft, but I have the commitment to eventually finish my degree. I have completed all the credits available online, but will eventually have to return to finish and complete the degree. It’s extremely important to me to want to finish and I want to have a Stanford degree. Additionally, my foundation focuses on education which is an added incentive. And, you know, I genuinely just like to learn things. Learning new things is fun for me.

NowVIZ: What is your motivation to train and push yourself every day?

Reid: That probably comes from my parents. They never really cared about the result, but they did care about the effort, the intent, and the respect. That was extremely important to them and they passed that onto us. My dad always told me when I was growing up if you’re a C student, and you tried your best and you got a C, I’m good with that. But If you’re an A student, you do your best to get it whatever the standard is, and to be consistent. So, we just always had a Stanford work ethic. We always put our best out there. Like, when I was on that swim team, and at one point I didn’t know if I wanted to finish the season or not, my dad was like, no, you started it so you’re gonna finish it. And that was great because in the end it has been the motivating factor anytime I do anything. If you commit to something, you need to follow through and do it—and do it with your best effort. That’s just how I live my life. Even if I fall short, I feel like I tried my best and I can be happy with that.

NowVIZ: You were crowned NFL’s top chess player winning the BlitzChamps III during the last two years (2024-25), beating Cardinals’ quarterback Kyler Murray 2-0 in the Grand Final of an eight-player double-elimination bracket! You also out-played Chidobe Awuzie the previous BlitzChamp winner along the way, essentially putting on a MasterClass performance! Will you talk about how you started playing and your love for the game?

Reid: The chess journey actually started when I was playing with the Texans. In my third year I had a teammate named Phillip Gaines, and we used to call him Grandmaster Phil, because Phil was always in his locker playing online chess on his phone. Always. So, I try to relate to all my teammates. And I went up and was, like, let’s play a game! I mean, yeah, he whooped me. He whooped me so bad that I was, like, I will never get whooped like this again! This is at the same time that The Queen’s Gambit came out, so I was like, okay, well, I’m gonna start watching some YouTube videos on how to play chess and chess strategy or whatever. And I eventually got better at it. Then I heard about the BlitzChamp tournament from a teammate, Drue Tranquill, with the Chiefs. At that point I was ready to go all in! So I hired a Grandmaster to be my coach. We had six training sessions, each was an hour long. He watched me on tape, and he gave me some suggestions and some more resources online to help with my improvement. And, yeah, it worked out! I felt really prepared going into the tournament and I was able to go out and perform.

BTS

Behind the scenes with Justin Reid.

NowVIZ: Will you discuss your foundation and the initial motivation to start JReid InDeed, which focuses on supporting disadvantaged youth and communities through interactive programs, community engagement, and technology access, across the Kansas City, Houston, and Baton Rouge areas.

Reid: We initially started doing a few projects in local high schools and stuff with the Baylor School of Medicine, and then with Microsoft in Houston. Then when I signed with Kansas City, it really began developing. We got the board together and I got an incredible Foundation Director who has helped put my vision into reality and into the community. It’s fun to see that spark ignite in a kid when you know they understand something, or you can see a shift in the way they think about a topic. It’s life changing; it’s changing the perspective, or opening the door you never realized was closed. So we wanted to grow and do something we don’t see, and that’s professional athletes promoting tech and tech skills. We are very fortunate to have Microsoft as a partner helping us develop a program that we’re going to roll out this summer. We will own the intellectual property and it’ll be the signature JReid InDeed course. Along the way, I’ve met some really cool people in the same space. it’s about presenting each topic to the kids in a fun way. For example, we do a class on cybersecurity. It might sound intimidating, but we engage them in scenarios where they are able see and understand what it is. And more than anything, we try to build confidence in the kids, even if tech isn’t for them, which is 100% fine. It’s more about trying something new and hoping it inspires each kid and helps them find out it wasn’t as scary as they thought.

We pride ourselves on being intimate with the communities and so we’re actually involved in doing the work. We want to be more than just a middle man between raising money and getting it to another foundation. We really want to be hands-on in the space.

NowVIZ: What’s your passion off the field?

Reid: Probably golf and chess. Yeah, I got the golf bug pretty bad. There’s literally a new golf club sitting outside my front door right now! And when I can’t play outside, I have a golf simulator, so I have the option to play inside. Once you start, you can’t stop. It’s an addiction!

MUSIC

MUSIC NOW

ZACH COLLINS, NBA, CHICAGO BULLS

It’s usually very seasonal. Like in the summer, I like a lot of country. I love country. I grew up on a lot of old 90s country music. I still love the new stuff and the pop stuff. Like, yeah, I love Morgan Wallen, Cody Johnson, both are great. And this last year, I’ve gotten way more into house music. DOM Dolla is up there for me. I love him. Always been a fan of Kygo. I’m a big The Weekend fan. I love slow music, R&B. And Drake is probably my favorite rapper—Drake and Eminem. So, yeah, I’m all over the place! But right now it’s summertime, so it’s a lot of country.

NOVA WAV, PRODUCTION AND SONGWRITING DUO

Blu: Honestly, I don’t listen to a ton of music—it keeps my creativity clear. But Mariah the Scientist? She’s been in the rotation lately.

Chi: A lot of binaural beats, healing tone, and ancient spiritual mantra music.

JUSTIN REID, NFL, NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

I like lyricists, I like people that tell a story with their music and aren’t just rapping about whatever. There’s a journey that they take you on. So I like J Cole, I like Kendrick, Drake. I’m not into the whole Kendrick, Drake beef or whatever, but I just like the good music. And I prefer music that keeps me calm, because I always think clearly and play my best when I’m calm. And every once in a while, a little bit of jazz, some Frank Sinatra.