Photo: nba.com
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 27: Fans of Liverpool show their support in the stands prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Liverpool FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Anfield on November 27, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Given the end-to-end packages f both sports, it’s probably no surprise to see basketball players at Anfield and other prestigious Premier League stadiums. With similarities between the two, the beautiful game also piques the interest of basketball fans everywhere. When they aren’t listening to Lakers-themed podcasts and assessing the latest NBA Finals odds, many basketball fanatics tune in to watch the Gunners, and they always get behind the Red Devils. NBA players do the same, with many players attending matches in the flesh, while others follow results from home.
With many NBA stars supporting Premier League teams, below we highlight them and their allegiances.
LeBron James is a part-owner
While some basketball professionals watch Premier League games from afar, others have immersed themselves in English football culture by purchasing a small stake in a club they adore. LeBron James, who is widely viewed as basketball royalty, is a part-owner of Liverpool FC. Since 2011, the Lakers legend has had a minority stake in last season’s Premier League champions, with his investment of around $6.5 million highlighting his commitment to the Reds’ cause.
Kevin Durant is a proud Gunner
Mikel Arteta has faced plenty of scrutiny during his time in charge of Arsenal, and while patience with the Spaniard looks like it’s about to pay off, Kevin Durant would have stuck around even if a trophy-less season materialized. The Houston Rockets hero is a proud Arsenal fan, with Durant attending big clashes over the years alongside being pictured in their jersey.
Draymond Green supports Liverpool
The Golden State Warriors are lucky to have Draymond Green within their ranks, although Liverpool fans can also call the power forward one of their own. Green isn’t afraid to celebrate big Liverpool wins on social media, while he’s also been seen wearing an array of the team’s jerseys following magical triumphs. A diehard Liverpool fan who clearly follows the team whenever he can, Draymond Green supports Liverpool and he wants everyone to know about it.
Devin Booker is an Arsenal fanatic
Devin Booker has been a divisive figure in the NBA, despite his undoubted shooting prowess for the Phoenix Suns. The shooting guard also admires finishing in soccer, with Booker being known to watch Arsenal whenever he can. While the former Kentucky Wildcats prodigy hasn’t been pictured at Emirates Stadium yet, there’s a strong chance Devin Booker will be visiting the club for a big game in the future.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been seen at Anfield
When Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t changing games on his own while turning out for the Milwaukee Bucks, the “Greek Freak” has been pictured at Anfield and seen in video clips watching his beloved Liverpool in action. Giannis Antetokounmpo probably isn’t happy with what he’s witnessed from Arne Slot’s troops this campaign, although he’ll always stick by his team given his evident passion for the club.
Carmelo Anthony is a Blue
Carmelo Anthony has retired from basketball, but the ten-time NBA All-Star and six-time All-NBA Team member still enjoys watching top-level sport. He has developed a penchant for Premier League soccer in particular, with the former Nuggets and Knicks star expressing his support for Chelsea on social media and in interviews over the years.
Other NBA players who support Premier League clubs include Chris Paul (Chelsea), Jimmy Butler (Manchester United), and Joel Embiid (Manchester United).
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