NBA’s growing ties to soccer are evident through the rising star Victor Wembanyama, who recently showcased his skills on a rainy Paris night. Dressed in a parka, hooded sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers, he stood outside, displaying impressive footwork that captivated onlookers.
Interestingly, a basketball was absent from his performance.
Wembanyama, like many NBA players, has a passion for soccer. This week, he was a highlight at a Champions League match featuring Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City. On the sidelines, he entertained fans by juggling a soccer ball with remarkable skill, alternating between feet without letting it touch the ground. His effortless display reflected a talent that not only requires practice but also a genuine love for the sport.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi even remarked, “He could come and play with us.”
After the game, Wembanyama left the stadium with a PSG jersey, beaming as if he had just walked away from an NBA arena with one of his own jerseys.
Wembanyama is not alone in his soccer enthusiasm; fellow NBA stars like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Jimmy Butler, Luka Dončić, and Josh Hart share this passion. They follow in the footsteps of basketball legends such as Steve Nash, Goran Dragic, Kobe Bryant, and Pau Gasol, who have all expressed their love for soccer.
The connection between the NBA and soccer is becoming increasingly significant. For instance, Lionel Messi’s presence at a Miami Heat game last season caused a stir among fans eager to catch a glimpse of the Argentine superstar. LeBron James made headlines in 2021 when he acquired a stake in Liverpool through Fenway Sports Group, while Antetokounmpo became a part-owner of Nashville SC in 2023. Additionally, Heat guard Josh Richardson is currently pursuing an investment in a soccer team.
Wembanyama noted the responsibility NBA players have to positively impact their communities, stating, “It just reminds me of that responsibility that we have to make our best to make that impact positive. Overall, just bringing emotions to people and bringing it together.”
The NBA closely observes soccer, particularly in Europe, where in-season tournaments have inspired similar initiatives in basketball. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recognized the potential for success in adopting such formats, leading to the creation of the NBA Cup, which has thrived in its initial seasons.
Currently, the NBA is engaged in discussions with FIBA and other organizations about new collaborations in Europe, drawing on soccer’s success as a model.
The San Antonio Spurs are solidifying their connection with PSG through a new business partnership. With the Spurs in Paris for games against the Indiana Pacers, both teams collaborated on merchandise that merges their brands. Executives from both organizations met to share insights, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship as the Spurs play in France while PSG prepares for a visit to the U.S. later this year.
“This partnership represents a unique opportunity to blend our expertise in leadership and fan connection, creating unforgettable experiences for our audiences,” said PSG CEO Victoriano Melero. He emphasized that upcoming events, like the Club World Cup in the U.S. next summer, will pave the way for initiatives that bridge cultures.
Jimmy Butler, who counts several soccer stars, including Paul Pogba, among his close friends, often interacts with them at games. He maintains a collection of jerseys and follows numerous teams worldwide.
He believes there is mutual respect between soccer players and basketball athletes, stating, “What they do is so difficult, so it’s humbling for us to know that everything we do is hand-eye coordination and everything they do is foot-eye coordination, which is unlike any other game.” Butler added, “Then, on top of that, they really are the coolest people in the world. I think if the majority of them ever had to pick another sport to want to play, it actually would be basketball.”
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