The NBA holds a special place in celebrity fandom, where stars can often boast just as much attention as the teams they are fans of. Who is making a big impression alongside their favorite franchises?
1. Drake – Toronto Raptors
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Inarguably, Drake is one of the most well-known fans of the Toronto Raptors as he is courtside at games, and promotes the team through his music and social media. During a championship run in 2019, his influence helped lift the Raptors to a level they hadn’t been before when they won their first NBA title. Drake’s relationship with the team is so strong, that the rapper was named the global ambassador for the Raptors.
2. Barack Obama – Chicago Bulls
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Barack Obama is a lifelong supporter of the Chicago Bulls. His love for Michael Jordan goes back to that era, and the former US president still roots for the Bulls. The Bulls are often in the spotlight thanks to Obama, especially during key moments in franchise history. Of course, with Jordan, they won six titles in the 90s.
3. Jay-Z – Brooklyn Nets
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Jay Z wasn’t just a fan of, but also part owner of, the Brooklyn Nets until 2013. He has become a key image for the Nets since they moved to Brooklyn, with his presence at games and his work on team branding. In music and culture as well as sports, Jay-Z is a major ambassador for the franchise.
4. Los Angeles Lakers – Snoop Dogg
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We know that Snoop Dogg is a loyal LA Lakers fan. He goes to games and expresses his support on social media, something his millions of followers know as well. An association with the Lakers also gives Snoop an appearance with the team, increasing its visibility and its popularity in the hip-hop culture.
5. Philadelphia 76ers – Will Smith
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Many years ago, Will Smith was vocal about the Philadelphia 76ers. Celebrity status gives the team attention throughout the season, but especially during the playoffs. Smith has become the most recognizable fan in basketball behind appearances at games, social media shout-outs.
What sort of influence do these celebrities have on the teams they play for? This engagement bridges the gap between sports and entertainment with a nice buzz and new fans around games. But what other celebrities could follow suit as their stars continue to prop up their teams?
Finally, the fact that these high-profile stars can cheer for their favorite NBA team, and certainly play a major part in increasing their visibility and popularity across a variety of avenues.
