Trump pardons NBA YoungBoy ahead of prison release and 2025 MASA tour

Baton Rouge rapper NBA YoungBoy, born Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, has been granted a full presidential pardon by former President Donald Trump, just weeks before his scheduled release from prison.

The White House confirmed the clemency on Wednesday, May 29, making headlines across major outlets. Trump’s decision also included pardons for eight other individuals, including ex-Congressman Michael Grimm and reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley.

NBA YoungBoy was expected to be released in July 2025 under a plea agreement related to a gun possession case in Utah. The pardon means the rapper is free to move forward without the restrictions that would have followed his conviction.

In a heartfelt social media statement, YoungBoy thanked Trump for the opportunity to rebuild. “This moment means a lot,” he wrote. “It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for.” He also expressed gratitude to criminal justice advocate Alice Marie Johnson, known as the “Pardon Czar,” and his attorney Brittany K. Barnett for their efforts.

YoungBoy, one of the most streamed artists globally, is now preparing for his first headlining tour — the MASA Tour — which kicks off September 2. The tour includes two back-to-back performances in his hometown at the Smoothie King Center on October 19 and 20.

The pardon clears a path for the rapper to fully return to music and his fans, with many viewing the move as a significant moment for both criminal justice reform and the hip-hop community.