Today we’d like to introduce you to Alonie (they/she) Riggins.
Hi Alonie (they/she), we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always loved to dance and entertain—it just feels like where I’m meant to be. I love bringing people together and creating moments where they can feel the energy, have fun, and experience a real sense of community.
In 2022, I decided to challenge myself and pursue sports entertainment, and it completely changed my path. I had the opportunity to dance for the Washington Mystics and the Washington Wizards, which helped me grow so much as a performer. After moving back to my hometown of Houston, I’ve continued that journey by performing in the NBA and with the Houston Dynamo, while also training at SoReal Dance Studio. Every experience has pushed me to keep growing, and I’m excited to see where dance takes me next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been smooth. I’ve faced my fair share of rejection and moments where I questioned myself, but every “no” has taught me something and pushed me to grow. Looking back, those experiences were just as important as the wins because they helped prepare me for the opportunities that came later. It’s been a journey full of challenges, but also so many blessings, and I wouldn’t trade any part of it because it’s made me the performer and person I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in freestyle, hip-hop, and movement-based styles like top rock and breaking. Freestyle is where I feel most like myself because it gives me the freedom to express who I am and connect with people in the moment. I’m also still performing in sports entertainment, which has given me the chance to bring that same energy to thousands of fans.
What I’m most proud of is staying true to myself while continuing to grow. Whether I’m performing on a court, a field, or in the studio, I want people to feel something. I think what sets me apart is the energy I bring and my ability to create genuine connections through movement. For me, it’s never just about the choreography—it’s about making people feel included, inspired, and part of something bigger.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I’ve always believed that no risk usually means no reward. Over the last five years, I’ve made some big decisions that felt uncertain at the time, but every one of them has helped shape who I am today.
One of the biggest risks I took was moving from Houston to the DMV area to chase opportunities and start a career in sports entertainment. It meant leaving behind what was familiar and betting on myself. That leap opened doors I never imagined, including opportunities to perform in the NBA and WNBA.
Another big risk was deciding to move back home to Houston. At first, it felt like I was taking a few steps backward, but it ended up being one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made. It allowed me to reconnect with my community while continuing to grow my career with the NBA and the Houston Dynamo.
For me, taking risks isn’t about having everything figured out—it’s about trusting myself enough to take the next step, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Looking back, I honestly don’t think I’d be where I am today if I had always chosen the safe option.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yolonieuwnacomeoutside?igsh=eDJ4ZzAwN2VqNnVr&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@butterfly.kiid?_r=1&_t=ZT-98JRteNLMmD
