Waco NBA champion Kenrich Williams serves as judge in karaoke showdown benefiting United Way

WACO, Texas (KWTX) - It was a who’s who in downtown Waco as nearly two dozen well known Wacoans had a karaoke showdown for a good cause which was judged by Waco’s first NBA Champion.

The “Rhythm and Blues” karaoke benefit was a first-of-its kind for The United Way of Waco-McLennan County.

The karaoke contestants included everyone from business and community leaders to Waco Police Chief Sheryl Victorian, Waco Mayor Jim Holmes and Waco ISD School board member Taylor Bledsoe.

University High School graduate, Kenrich Williams, the first NBA player from Waco to win an NBA Championship after the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers earlier this year, returned to Waco to serve as the celebrity judge.

“It was for a great cause,” Williams said. “I was able to be a judge for some contestants, and it was super fun. I definitely would do it again, but it was super fun, and it was, most importantly, for a great cause.”

Williams return to help was no surprise to Wacoans as he’s constantly giving back.

He said he believes it’s what he’s called to do and helping the local United Way was no different.

“I feel like it’s a part of becoming a professional,” the NBA star said. “When you reach a certain level in your life, you’re supposed to give back and it’s my job to give back to the community, give back to these kids who look up to me and just give them some inspiration and hope.”

The singing event kicked off the nonprofit’s workplace campaign in which businesses all over town raise money for The United Way.

The United Way unites people, organizations and resources to advance youth opportunity, build a healthy community, strengthen financial security and support community resiliency.

The local chapter is 100 years old.

Wendy Ellis is the CEO of The United Way of Waco-McLennan County.

She said around 450 people turned out to donate and enjoy the unique and fun evening.

“I can’t say enough about how many people across our area invested their time and talent to make our first United Way Rhythm & Brews such a great success,” Ellis said. “United Way of Waco-McLennan County is looking forward to a strong campaign season and another year of mobilizing the caring power of our community and we hope everyone will join our network of givers.”

Other performers include Amy Akins, Blake Batson, Kimberly Batson, J.T. Carpenter, Wes & Meredith Cole, Cory Duncan, Tracy Guillory, Ann Harder, Austin Hooper, Dr. Tyrha M. Lindsey-Warren, Dillon Meek, Rachel E. Pate, Maiya Cloud, Margaret Ratliff, Stephen Reed, April Rosier and Justin Rosolino.

Local attorney Stephen Reed won Vocal Performance of the year.

April Rosier won Entertainer of the Year and Amy Akins won The People’s Choice Award.

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