Three NBA players showed support for Atlanta’s MLS franchise
Okongwu continues pattern of Hawks players engaging with local sports teams
Atlanta United lost 3-1 to Club Necaxa
WHAT HAPPENED
WHAT HAPPENED
Several NBA players took in the international friendly between Atlanta United and Liga MX’s Club Necaxa at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu, a 2020 first-round pick who’s spent his entire career in Atlanta, was joined by Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado, known for his pesky defense, and Josh Okogie, the former Georgia Tech standout now with the Houston Rockets. The trio was seen mingling with fans and staying locked into the action throughout the match.
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WHAT ATLANTA UNITED POSTEDTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The attendance of Okongwu, Alvarado, and Okogie represents the continuing relationship between Atlanta’s professional sports franchises. Their presence underscores how NBA players increasingly embrace soccer, mirroring the growing popularity of the sport throughout the United States.
WHAT’S NEXT?
WHAT’S NEXT?
Following their 3-1 loss, Atlanta United will face Pumas UNAM in their second game of the Leagues Cup on Aug. 2 followed by their final game of the tournament against Atlas on Aug. 6.