Keri Hilson Opens Up About the “Underworld” of Dating Athletes -

Keri Hilson Opens Up About the “Underworld” of Dating Athletes

Keri Hilson is opening up about what she describes as the “underworld” of dating professional athletes—and she has some candid advice for women who find themselves in those relationships.

During a recent sit-down with The Shade Room, the singer spoke about the constant attention athletes can receive from women while traveling and playing professionally. Her advice drew from her most high-profile past relationship with NBA player Serge Ibaka.

Hilson explained that athletes can have seemingly endless access to women, including advances from women they encounter in different cities, hotels and even while traveling.

“There’s a lot of access to random, meaningless sex. A lot of advances from some of the most beautiful women,” Hilson said.

She continued by describing the attention athletes receive, saying it’s “literally thrown at them.”

While Hilson emphasized that she hopes this isn’t the reality for every woman dating an athlete, she acknowledged that constant temptation can create challenges within a relationship.

For women who find themselves in that position, Hilson stressed the importance of maintaining their self-worth and boundaries.

“Never abandon yourself, regardless of how much you love them,” she said, adding that if a partner is engaging in behavior that goes against your values, you have the right to walk away.

Her message ultimately centered on knowing your worth and understanding that love doesn’t mean accepting behavior that compromises your peace.

Hilson has also been using this latest chapter of her career to openly discuss her own journey of healing and personal growth.

After stepping away from the music industry for roughly 15 years, she returned with her multi-part album trilogy, We Need To Talk, with the final installment, Redemption, that released in March.

Since returning to the spotlight, Hilson has been making appearances across interviews, podcasts and live performances, giving fans a deeper look into what led her to step away from music and how she has changed during her time away.

Her latest comments offer another glimpse into the perspective she’s gained—and a reminder that, in any relationship, losing yourself should never be the price of staying in love.