While the distance between a Premier League pitch and an NBA court may stretch across the North Atlantic Ocean, the passion for football knows no boundaries – even among the tallest athletes on the planet!
From club ownership to social media shout-outs and scarf-laden stadium visits, a growing number of NBA superstars are embracing the beautiful game, showing that baller respect advances further beyond the halfway line.
In recent years, the globalisation of sport and the ever-growing crossover between fashion, music, and athletics has blurred the lines between fandom and fraternity. The Premier League, with its unmatched drama, tribal loyalty, and global appeal, has become a magnet for basketball’s elite – many of whom have adopted English football clubs as their own.
Here’s a closer look at the NBA players whose loyalty to the Premier League is as steadfast as their game on the court.
LeBron James – Liverpool FC
It’s not just a case of fandom for LeBron James – it’s business. In 2011, the four-time NBA champion became a minority stakeholder in Liverpool FC through a partnership with Fenway Sports Group. What began as a commercial move has clearly evolved into genuine loyalty. LeBron has his own clothing collaboration with the club and has been spotted wearing Liverpool shirts of his own, congratulating the team on social media after title wins, and even tweeting his delight during Champions League nights.
“YNWA” (You’ll Never Walk Alone) may be an anthem at Anfield, but LeBron has adopted it like a lifelong Scouser. His connection to the Reds has helped bring Premier League football to a broader American audience – especially among younger fans influenced by the NBA’s global reach. Liverpool’s resurgence – from the Klopp era to their historic 20th league title under Arne Slot – has unfolded in parallel with LeBron’s own rise as a sporting and business powerhouse, forging a transatlantic connection that goes far beyond a casual investment.
Kevin Durant – Chelsea FC
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant has long been a student of the game – both basketball and football. While not as overt a supporter as LeBron, Durant has been open about his affinity for Chelsea FC. This gained further traction in 2023 when defender Ben Chilwell handed Durant a jersey with “Durant” printed on the back alongside his classic number 35 while Chelsea were taking part in a pre-season Summer Series competition in the U.S.
Durant’s interest in football has been steadily growing. In interviews, he’s spoken about watching Premier League matches regularly and appreciating the pace and skill of the English top flight. Much like his own playing style – versatile, lethal, and clinical – he’s drawn to players and teams that exude technical excellence. Chelsea’s current mixture of young talent and European pedigree fits the bill.
What’s more, KD has also dipped a toe into football ownership, investing in MLS side Philadelphia Union. The growing trend of NBA players becoming football investors or advocates highlights a genuine cross-cultural shift rather than a fleeting fascination. His presence has even seen crossover discussions emerge among fans, such as the comparison of basketball odds and football betting trends, a sign of how deeply interconnected global sports culture is becoming.
Steve Nash – Tottenham Hotspur
A Spurs fan through and through, two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash might be the most vocal and emotionally invested Premier League supporter among basketball royalty. Born in South Africa but raised in British Columbia, Nash’s football roots run deep – and even considered a professional career in the sport before choosing basketball.
His devotion to Tottenham is serious business. He’s attended multiple matches at White Hart Lane and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, met with club legends, and frequently tweets about games, performances, and heartaches. Nash once joked that Spurs’ unpredictable nature makes them a difficult team to support, but that’s part of the love story.
As former head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, Nash brought a bit of Spurs flavour into NBA locker rooms, even arranging team bonding sessions around watching Premier League matches. If anyone understands the emotional rollercoaster of being a football fan, it’s Nash – and for him, it’s always COYS (Come On You Spurs).
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Arsenal FC
Arsenal have no shortage of celebrity fans, but few are as, or were as physically imposing and enthusiastic as Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “were” comes in light of a recent tweet on X claiming that his past admiration for the club has faded, and he now supports Real Madrid! However, the “Greek Freak” has shown his love for the Gunners publicly in recent years, including wearing Arsenal kits during training and giving cheeky nods to the North London side on Instagram.
Giannis’ prior praise for Arsenal stems from the club’s rich history. He revealed in an interview that a large part of his footballing influence was down to watching legendary striker Thierry Henry, enhancing his love for the game when he was growing up. With his global fanbase and towering media presence, Giannis has indirectly helped Arsenal further tap into the American and international markets – just as the NBA uses player personalities to expand globally.
More Than Just a Trend
While some fans may brush off these affiliations as PR plays or brand alignment, the reality is more nuanced. NBA stars often admire the culture, intensity, and storytelling within football. With its weekly chaos, tight scorelines, and deep-seated rivalries, the Premier League mirrors the high drama of the NBA Playoffs.
For these athletes – who live in a world of constant media attention and competitive pressure – watching Premier League football offers not just a pastime but a sense of tribal belonging. It’s a reminder that even global icons are fans, too.
The Growing Intersection of Two Worlds
These connections have become business ventures, collaborative media content, and most importantly, a mutual respect and admiration. Whether it’s LeBron influencing Liverpool’s branding, Durant being greeted by Chelsea superstars, or Nash analysing Spurs like a tactical pundit, these NBA players are not just fans, they’re genuine in their love for the game.
As the Premier League continues to expand its footprint in the U.S. and Asia, don’t be surprised if even more basketball stars pick sides – on both court and pitch.
In the end, ballers recognise ballers. And when the Premier League kicks off each weekend, the NBA’s finest are often watching – scarves on, tweets ready, and hearts as invested as any die-hard in the stands.
