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In the last decade, Lionel Messi has not just played soccer; he's dominated it by winning eight Ballon d'Or awards. His latest move to Inter Miami has everyone talking, even in the U.S., where basketball is more dominant than soccer.
NBA legends are now some of Messi's biggest fans, often discussing his incredible skills and career moves.
What are these NBA legends saying about the Argentine superstar? Let’s explore how Messi's influence crosses beyond basketball and how it got the NBA legends talking.
The late Kobe Bryant was introduced to a young Lionel Messi by none other than Ronaldinho, who was at the time his great friend. At just 17, Messi's raw talent was evident, leaving a lasting impression on Bryant. Ronaldinho’s ability to recognize potential greatness was profound, and his endorsement of Messi as a special talent was prophetic. Kobe saw a spark of future greatness. You've got to see the clip where Kobe Bryant first encounters Lionel Messi during a casual chat with Ronaldinho.
Shaquille O'Neal, commonly known as Shaq, is a retired American basketball player, widely regarded as one of the most dominant centers in the history of the NBA. Over his illustrious career, Shaq earned numerous accolades, including four NBA championships, an MVP award, and 15 All-Star game appearances. Known for his larger-than-life personality both on and off the court, Shaq has also made a name for himself as a sports analyst, actor, and entrepreneur.
When discussing Lionel Messi, a figure as monumental in soccer as Shaq is in basketball, Shaq’s admiration is evident. In a brief clip, Shaq highlighted Messi's exceptional abilities, reflecting on the global influence Lionel has on sports, beyond soccer.
LeBron James, often referred to as the 'GOAT' of basketball, did not hold back in his praise for Messi, especially highlighting the impact of his move to MLS. LeBron told ESPN, "Seeing Messi, the GOAT of soccer, honor the MLS with his presence is a total game-changer for us."
LeBron James shows love to Lionel Messi before his Inter Miami & MLS debut
His words underline the significant ripple effect Messi's transition to MLS has on elevating the profile of American soccer. He was also seen embracing the World Cup winner recently.
Dirk Nowitzki reveals who HE believes is the NBA & soccer GOAT! | CBS Sports Kickin' it |
Legendary NBA baller Dirk Nowitzki was recently quizzed to choose one between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Speaking on CBS Sports' Golazo, the star basketball player not only picked Messi, but he also highlighted why he is not a big fan of CR7.
'I'm a Messi Guy': NBA Legend replies “The Million Dollar Question” and takes a cheeky dig at Cristiano.
Dirk expressed his preference for Messi, citing his 'low-key' demeanor as a major factor, against the flashier Ronaldo. Nowitzki feels the Argentine’s e 'low-key' nature is similar to his style and that's why he likes the World Cup winner.
The buzz around Messi's debut for Inter Miami was palpable, with stars like Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry expressing their excitement. Kyle Lowry expressed confidence in the league's ability to elevate its game by incorporating a megastar like Messi.
Six-time All-Star Kyle Terrell Lowry also showed his love for the game and Messi by expressing that it would be fantastic to have him in America.
Butler's enthusiastic support, captured in his live tweets, reflected the excitement Messi generates with his play.
Lowry's comment encapsulates the sentiment: "It's going to be awesome, man. I think the MLS is a great league, and I think they understand how to put the product out there and bring one of the world's greatest soccer and football players out there."
Their anticipation and subsequent reactions to Messi's performance, which included a dramatic last-minute goal, illustrate the broad appeal Messi has across different sports.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks and Jay Crowder of the Milwaukee Bucks were quick to laud Messi's skills on Twitter, with Brunson calling his game-winning goal "so fire" and Crowder simply exclaiming, "Wow, Messi!"
2 май 2024
