“We did it again, Brooklyn! Shout out to B.I.G.,” a triumphant Jay-Z declared at the ceremonial groundbreaking of the 18,000-seat Barclays Center at Atlantic Yards, the future home of the Brooklyn Nets. Governor David Paterson, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, and Beyoncé were present to mark the momentous occasion.

“What I stand here and represent is hope for New York City. I’m a son of Brooklyn, I’m from Marcy Projects,” said the hip-hop mogul, one of the investors in the sports and entertainment arena. “It brings me so much pride that I’mma get a little nervous about it, but I’m very happy, I’m very excited on this day.”