Football BaBe
NBA Stars Show Love for Atlanta’s Soccer Scene
Discover how basketball pros are bridging sports worlds in the ATL, spotlighting the city’s vibrant athletic community.
In a thrilling display of cross-sport camaraderie, NBA players including Atlanta Hawks’ own Onyeka Okongwu turned up to cheer on Atlanta United during their recent Leagues Cup clash. This event not only highlighted the growing intersection between basketball and soccer in the United States but also emphasized Atlanta’s role as a hub for diverse professional sports. With soccer’s popularity surging-evidenced by MLS viewership hitting record highs in 2023, up 25% from previous years-these athletes’ involvement adds a fresh layer of excitement to local games.
NBA Players Rally Behind Atlanta United in Leagues Cup Action
- Three NBA players showed support for Atlanta’s MLS franchise
- Okongwu continues pattern of Hawks players engaging with local sports teams
- Atlanta United lost 3-1 to Club Necaxa
A group of prominent basketball talents enjoyed an exciting soccer showdown featuring Atlanta United against Mexico‘s Club Necaxa at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Leading the pack was Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu, selected in the first round back in 2020 and a staple in Atlanta’s lineup ever since. He was accompanied by New Orleans Pelicans’ defensive specialist Jose Alvarado, celebrated for his relentless on-court pressure, and Josh Okogie, the ex-Georgia Tech star who’s now making waves with the Houston Rockets. The group interacted energetically with supporters and remained fully invested in every moment of the game, much like fans rallying behind their team during a high-stakes playoff series.
Strengthening Ties Among Atlanta’s Pro Sports Teams
This gathering by Okongwu, Alvarado, and Okogie highlights the strengthening bonds across Atlanta’s major league organizations. It illustrates a trend where basketball athletes are diving into the world of soccer, aligning with the sport’s explosive growth nationwide, as seen in the MLS attracting over 11 million fans in the 2023 season alone.
What’s Next for Atlanta United After Leagues Cup Setback
After suffering a 3-1 defeat, Atlanta United is gearing up for their upcoming Leagues Cup fixtures, starting with a matchup against Pumas UNAM on August 2, and wrapping up with Atlas on August 6. As the team aims to rebound, recent updates show them bolstering their roster with key signings, potentially turning the tide in this competitive tournament.
