Before the start of the match, images of the recent World Cup final, during which Mbappé distinguished himself with a hat-trick despite France’s defeat against Argentina on penalties (3-3 aet), were broadcast on the giant screen overlooking the pitch, prompting a standing ovation for the PSG striker, according to a video posted on Twitter.
Already present in June during the NBA draft, the exchange during which teams recruit new young players, Mbappé has never hidden being a fan of North American basketball, and the league apparently returns the favor.
In addition to his ovation, the player and his Moroccan teammate also received jerseys from Nets superstar Kevin Durant, who came to greet them and pose for a few shots on the sidelines, according to images released by the NBA on its Instagram account.
” I wanted to come for a long time, before the summer. I came with my friend Achraf Hakimi, we wanted to come to the Barclays Center (the Nets’ home arena, editor’s note), and now we are here and we are going to enjoy this match ,” said Mbappé – in English – in a short video broadcast on social networks by the NBA.
In another video, Mbappé is seen in the locker room congratulating the New York players.
” Congratulations. It was really nice to watch. Good luck for the season ,” said the French vice-world champion.
On the court, the Nets easily won 139-103 against the San Antonio Spurs, securing a 12th victory in a row thanks in particular to 25 points and 11 assists from Kevin Durant, and 27 points and 8 rebounds from point guard Kyrie Irving.
The two PSG players suffered their first defeat of the season on Sunday in Lens (1-3), a match in which they were both starters.
