Introduction to “Switch the Play”
In a groundbreaking move to highlight the connection between basketball and soccer, Larry Nance Jr., forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, is set to launch a new digital series titled “Switch the Play” in collaboration with the Men in Blazers Media Network. This weekly program will showcase NBA players who share a passion for soccer, providing insights into their experiences and the growing interest in the sport among basketball athletes. The inaugural episode will feature none other than Alex Caruso from the Oklahoma City Thunder, which is scheduled to premiere on Thursday.
Soccer’s Growing Popularity in the NBA
Reflecting on the changing landscape of sports culture, Nance remarked on the evolution of soccer’s popularity within the NBA since he joined the league in 2015. He noted,
“When I came into the league, there were hardly any players who could discuss Premier League outcomes from the previous season; now, soccer dominates conversations in the locker room. The increasing international ties in basketball have led to more players passionately following soccer.”
This trend underscores a broader cultural exchange between the two sports.
NBA Stars and Their Love for Soccer
Among the NBA’s elite, a shared enthusiasm for soccer is now evident. Stars like Victor Wembanyama, Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Joel Embiid openly express their admiration for the game. A notable moment occurred last winter when Wembanyama attended a Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City match, and he subsequently gained attention for participating in informal soccer games globally during the summer.
Mutual Interactions Between Sports
The interaction between soccer and basketball is mutual, with Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates making appearances at Miami Heat games, while Real Madrid players like Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe frequently enjoy NBA matchups. Jimmy Butler, a prominent player with the Heat, humorously stated that he has lost track of how many jerseys he has swapped with international soccer stars during these encounters.
NBA’s Adoption of Soccer Elements
In a significant crossover, the NBA has taken cues from European soccer by adopting elements of in-season competitions, such as the NBA Cup, which mirrors European trophy contests.
Nance’s Vision for the Series
Nance hopes to leverage the series to give fans a deeper perspective on the shared experiences and interests athletes have across both sports, saying,
“This show will allow players from around the league to discuss their love for soccer, the similarities between our games, and our perspectives as professional athletes.”
Nance’s Background in Soccer
Outside of basketball, Nance has a rich background in soccer, having played until the age of 16. He is also a part-owner of Leeds United, having invested in the Premier League team in 2023 alongside Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell. Now, at 33 years old, Nance is embarking on his 11th season in the NBA, boasting a career average of 7.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. He returned to the Cavaliers as a free agent this past July, having previously played for the team from 2018 to 2021.
