'World champions of what?' - Noah Lyles risks NBA players' wrath after showing up for Orlando Magic's home game
World's fastest man Noah Lyles may have risked the wrath of NBA players after showing up with his fiancee Junelle Bromfield for Orlando Magic's home game against Philadelphia 76ers.
Lyles was present as a star guest for the decisive game which Orlando Magic won 114 - 99 against the 76ers to the delight of the home crowd.
Had to catch a home game @OrlandoMagic pic.twitter.com/46imL5b0PE
— Noah Lyles, OLY (@LylesNoah) October 19, 2024
His appearance has stirred some conversations as he's known to be a villain US basketball league following his controversial statements after winning the world 100m title in Budapest last year with his viral 'World champions of what?' concerning NBA league winners.
"I love the U.S... but that ain't the world!" ❌
— Eurosport (@eurosport) August 27, 2023
Noah Lyles throws shade at the NBA's 'world champions' 🏀👀 pic.twitter.com/BRCJagckcK
Players such as Anthony Edwards will later on respond with a massive clapback:
“I didn’t even know who this guy was before he said world champs of what, he’s a failed Usain Bolt wannabe.”
Consequently, at the Paris Olympic Games, Lyles was trolled by the US Men's Basketball team after his bronze medal finish in the 200m final.
1. Noah Lyles was addressing why NBA Champs are not World Champs, NOT team USA.
— Tshepo (@chemicaIydriven) August 11, 2024
2. USA are Olympic champs, NOT World Champs. That titled is held by Germany.
You guys are lame for throwing shade at your countryman that has won a gold medal AND bronze, for speaking the truth. https://t.co/tLswkMy137
Another case was Lyles denying knowing NBA star player Nikola Jokic when asked if he was the best player in the world.
"I'm gonna be honest, I don't know who that is," he said.
🌶️ Noah Lyles vs. the NBA saga
— Track Spice 🌶️ (@trackspice) August 19, 2024
(via Nightcap Podcast) pic.twitter.com/T5iPOi8mQ9
Lyles' appearance at the Orlando Magic game is reportedly his first time watching an NBA match, and with his controversies surrounding the NBA franchise, perhaps an olive branch between both parties will be extended soon.