News Summary
Louisiana State Police heightened their presence in New Orleans during an NBA YoungBoy concert at the Smoothie King Center amid safety concerns. Troopers confiscated several ATVs and firearms during crowd management. Approximately 400 officers managed the events, ensuring attendee safety. Despite previous public safety challenges in YoungBoy’s tour, both shows sold out, contributing to local economic growth. The second concert coincides with the rapper’s 26th birthday, following his release from prison earlier this year.
New Orleans – Louisiana State Police increased their presence in New Orleans on Sunday night to ensure security during an NBA YoungBoy concert at the Smoothie King Center. This decision came in light of safety concerns, following a series of crowd management incidents during the concert events.
During their patrol, troopers observed several ATVs, dirt bikes, and motorcycles being operated in a reckless manner. Following the riders’ escape, five individuals were apprehended near the intersection of North Claiborne Avenue and Columbus Street. In total, law enforcement confiscated four ATVs, two dirt bikes, one motorcycle, and three firearms during the enforcement operation. Notably, two of the recovered ATVs were reported as stolen, raising further public safety issues.
In preparation for the high-profile event, New Orleans police deployed approximately 400 officers throughout downtown and the French Quarter to manage the crowds effectively. The Smoothie King Center also implemented stringent security measures, including a ban on all bags and purses, to expedite screening processes for attendees.
Following the first concert on October 19, 2025, NBA YoungBoy, born Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, was seen strolling through notable areas like Canal and Bourbon streets. This sighting attracted a considerable gathering, prompting police assistance in ensuring the rapper’s safety. Authorities later confirmed that there were no criminal incidents or arrests involving YoungBoy during this management situation.
Despite the crowded conditions, NBA YoungBoy left without issue. Officials have assured that the planned second concert on October 20, 2025, will continue as scheduled. Historically, YoungBoy’s MASA Tour, which stands for “Make America Slime Again,” has faced multiple cancellations in various cities due to public safety concerns, notably in Chicago, Detroit, and Kansas City. However, the tour has proven commercially successful, averaging gross ticket sales of about $1.5 million per show. Both New Orleans shows sold out, with a maximum capacity of 17,000 attendees.
The revenue from ticket sales and merchandise has been substantial, contributing to the local economy. Many local businesses expect to benefit financially due to the influx of concertgoers in the area.
This concert series follows NBA YoungBoy’s release from a 23-month prison sentence for gun charges, during which he was pardoned in May by former President Donald Trump. Recognized as one of the most popular rappers of his generation, YoungBoy boasts billions of views on YouTube and has charted over 100 singles on the Billboard charts.
Security protocols for the concert events included deploying tactical teams, drones, and armored vehicles to ensure crowd safety amid the expected large turnout. Notably, the evening of the second concert also marks NBA YoungBoy’s 26th birthday, adding an extra layer of significance to the event.
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Additional Resources
- NOLA: NBA YoungBoy Hit Bourbon Street After New Orleans Concert
- Wikipedia: NBA YoungBoy
- WDSU: New Orleans Police Increasing Security for NBA YoungBoy Concert
- Google Search: NBA YoungBoy concert
- Fox 8 Live: NBA YoungBoy Mobbed by Crowd in French Quarter
- Google Scholar: NBA YoungBoy concert security
- WWLTV: NBA YoungBoy in NOLA – What to Know Before You Go
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NBA YoungBoy
- Fox 8 Live: NBA YoungBoy Concert Prompts Massive Security Deployment in New Orleans
- Google News: New Orleans NBA YoungBoy
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
