E! is taking us behind the scenes with their docu-series L.A. Clippers Dance Squad, premiering tonight. The show offers an in-depth look at the lives of elite dance team members in professional sports. From auditions and rehearsals to personal challenges and professional ambitions, this docu-series reveals what it takes to make it to the floor of the Staples Center in Los Angeles and dance for basketball fans while representing a high-profile, global brand.
It’s no secret that NBA and NFL dancers make very little money, with some earning as low as $50 a game. The justification for this low pay is the exposure these girls get on television and being part of an international brand like the NBA or NFL. However, as the documentary will show, this is a full-time job, and these girls work extremely hard to do what they do. The odds of becoming a TV or movie star or even a model are still against them, so the stress of it all will undoubtedly come to a head on this show.
While shows documenting sports teams aren’t new, this will be the first show that goes behind the scenes of an NBA dance squad. Think of it as a “Total Divas” for cheerleaders. And who are the ones to watch? There are three that stand out. While I don’t know much about these ladies, their looks and popularity on social media lead me to believe that they’re going to be the big three. Here they are:
Natalie Tenerelli: The Reality TV Veteran
Natalie is no stranger to reality TV, having been the second runner-up of Season 22 of Survivor. Tenerelli’s bio on the team website suggests she’s in danger of losing her job on the spirit squad. However, since she’s on the show, I think she’ll stick around and continue to bring her reality TV experience to the table.
Athena Perample: The Diva
Athena is going to be the diva of the group, I can just feel it. Since arriving in L.A. in 2010, she has already collaborated with some celebrities (Lil Wayne, Cody Simpson) and big-name brands (Nike, MAC Cosmetics, Beats By Dre). One plotline we’ll be looking at is the fact that Athena isn’t on the team’s website as a member, so we’re not clear if she’s officially on the squad. Regardless, she has the biggest social following, with over 12K Instagram followers. (Athena is on the right in this picture)
Hannah Cormier: The Southern Belle
Hannah is chasing her dreams of performing in L.A., according to her show bio. She’s the southerner of the group and has over 6K followers on Instagram. That number is sure to skyrocket as the show gains popularity. But Hannah has plenty of experience under her belt, having previously danced for the NFL’s New Orleans Saints.
