Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

LeBron James Shares Moment With New Dodgers Recruit

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jan 23, 2025 4:58 AM ET

Four-time NBA champion LeBron James welcomed Roki Sasaki, the newest recruit for the Los Angeles Dodgers, during a recent Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena. The two stars shared a memorable moment courtside, highlighting the connection between basketball and baseball in Los Angeles.

Sasaki, the highly anticipated Japanese pitcher, made a splash in Los Angeles just days after announcing his signing with the Dodgers. Attending the game against the Washington Wizards, Sasaki had the opportunity to meet James courtside. The encounter was a warm welcome for Sasaki, who is set to begin his MLB career with the reigning World Series champions in 2025.

LOOK! LeBron James Shares Moment With New Dodgers Recruit 1 Jan 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki, bottom left, watches as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) waits on the court against the Washington Wizards at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

During a brief chat at Crypto.com Arena, LeBron acknowledged the significance of Sasaki’s arrival in L.A., a moment that marked the intersection of two major sports in the city. Sasaki, only 23 years old, was just turning two when LeBron made his NBA debut in 2003, highlighting the generational impact both athletes have had in their respective sports.

In addition to meeting James, Sasaki also connected with fellow Japanese player Rui Hachimura, who plays for the Purple and Gold. Hachimura took the time to show Sasaki how to make the “LA” hand sign, further solidifying the cultural connection between the two athletes. The camaraderie among players from Japan reflects the growing influence of Japanese talent in American sports.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Lebron James Shares Moment With Los Angeles Dodgers’ Roki Sasaki

LOOK! LeBron James Shares Moment With New Dodgers Recruit 2 Jan 22, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) during an introductory press conference at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Just recently, James welcomed Sasaki to Los Angeles as part of the Dodgers. This can be seen in a series of photos shared by the NBA team’s official account on X.

LAへようこそ、朗希
Welcome to LA, Rōki pic.twitter.com/ML2VcFXGek

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 22, 2025

Sasaki received a custom No. 11 jersey during the game, a fitting gesture as he prepares to don the same number with the Dodgers. This jersey exchange symbolizes his new journey in Los Angeles, where the excitement surrounding his potential is palpable.

Sasaki’s meeting with James is more than just a celebrity encounter; it signifies a new chapter for the young pitcher in a city that embraces athletic talent. As he transitions from Japan to Major League Baseball, the support from stars like LeBron and Hachimura will undoubtedly encourage him on his path to success.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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