Photo Credit: USA Basketball
In a continued crossover of sports, NBA star Anthony Edwards was spotted enthusiastically cheering for American table tennis player Lily Zhang during the Women’s Singles Table Tennis event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Edwards, known for his dynamic presence on the basketball court, brought his infectious energy to the table tennis arena.
On Monday, Edwards was seen in the crowd, passionately supporting Zhang as she faced Brazil’s Bruna Takahashi in the round of 32. Zhang, buoyed by the support, delivered a stellar performance, winning the match 4-2 and advancing to the round of 16.
Anthony Edwards in the crowd pic.twitter.com/Elt8rp4JrU
— The Daily Wolves (@TheDailyWolves) July 29, 2024
Anthony Edwards had to go support USA’s Lily Zhang after Steph Curry said he’d lose 21-0 to the U.S. table tennis team pic.twitter.com/vbNQcgLkhH
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 29, 2024
The story began during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics. While on the boat carrying the United States delegation along the Seine River, Edwards met the members of Team USA’s women’s table tennis team. In a playful exchange, Edwards, brimming with confidence, challenged the team to a game.
He boldly claimed that he could score at least one point against them in a game to 21. Olympic teammate Steph Curry added to the fun by teasing Edwards, saying, “They said they can smack you 21-0.” Edwards, undeterred, responded, “I don’t believe it. I’m not having it. Eleven to zero? I’m scoring one point”.
“They said they can smack you 21 nothing.”
Steph Curry instigating a match between Anthony Edwards and the USA Ping Pong team is COMEDY
(via @TeamUSA)
pic.twitter.com/nTZU1Whi09— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 27, 2024
The sight of an NBA superstar enjoying a sport so different from his own drew appreciative reactions on social media. Fans loved seeing Edwards’ charismatic personality shine in a new setting, and his support for Zhang added a heartwarming touch to the competition. The mutual respect between athletes from different sports highlighted the unifying spirit of the Olympics.
