When Sixers Meet Slam Dunks: IPL Cricketers Who Secretly Love Basketball and the NBA

When Sixers Meet Slam Dunks: IPL Cricketers Who Secretly Love Basketball and the NBA


📰 Article:

🏏🏀 When Sixers Meet Slam Dunks: IPL Players Who Love Basketball & the NBA

IPL isn't just a cricketing carnival — it's a universe where cricketers secretly channel their inner LeBron James, scream “Kobe!” while throwing socks in hotel bins, and know way too much about Steph Curry’s three-point stats.

You think these guys sleep, eat, and breathe cricket? Bro, some of them are out here breaking ankles on the hardwood — at least in spirit.

Let’s explore the IPL cricketers who are obsessed with basketball and the NBA — and throw in some gear recommendations to help you become a cricket-NBA hybrid beast. Like Dhoni with a dunk.

King Kohli and King James
King Kohli and King James



🧠 1. Virat Kohli – The Steph Curry Fanboy?

Yes, King Kohli might be the closest thing cricket has to a global icon — but off the pitch, he’s often spotted in NBA jerseys, especially Golden State Warriors merch. Multiple sources say he's a big Steph Curry admirer. Makes sense — both are explosive, elite, and have insane work ethics.

“If Steph Curry played cricket, he’d be the Virat Kohli of cover drives.” – Probably Not Kohli, But Sounds Legit

Also, Kohli’s love for fitness aligns perfectly with NBA training — imagine him doing box jumps in a LeBron jersey.


🧢 2. Hardik Pandya – NBA Drip King

When he’s not flexing on the cricket field or Instagram, Hardik Pandya is often seen rocking Chicago Bulls caps, Air Jordans, and yes, NBA streetwear. The guy oozes style like Dennis Rodman… if Rodman had a fade and batted at No. 5.

Rumors say he once challenged his teammates to a 1v1 hoops match in the hotel gym — and won… because everyone else was too scared to ruin their knees.

“If Hardik dunks like he hits sixes, someone’s losing a head.”


😎 3. KL Rahul – Courtside Casual

KL Rahul is style personified — and just like NBA stars, his Insta feed is 80% sneakers, 20% deep captions. He’s often spotted wearing Lakers or Heat gear, and word on the street is he follows the NBA religiously.

Wouldn’t be shocked if Rahul has a hoop in his backyard and yells “Bang!” every time he scores.


👶 4. Rishabh Pant – Baller at Heart

Before the accident, Pant was all about movement and agility — qualities that translate beautifully into basketball. Also, he once shared a story watching the NBA Finals at 3AM. That’s commitment, baby.

“Pant hits reverse sweeps like Kyrie Irving finishes layups — wild, beautiful, and probably unnecessary.”


🏀 5. Shubman Gill – Gen-Z NBA Geek

Shubman Gill is the kind of guy who probably trades NBA cards, knows every jersey number, and has 4 fantasy basketball teams. He’s mentioned enjoying NBA highlights, and his Gen-Z swag screams “I wear Jordans and argue on Reddit.”

Don’t be shocked if he shows up to practice wearing a Giannis Antetokounmpo jersey.


😭 Why IPL Players Love the NBA

Let’s break it down:

  • Basketball is a high-speed, high-adrenaline sport — just like T20 cricket.

  • It has swagger. It has culture. It has posters of dunks and highlight reels.

  • NBA players are global icons, and IPL stars love that vibe.

  • Also, many IPL players train in the off-season with basketball to improve agility.


🛒 Cricket + Basketball Gear You’ll Love (with Full Affiliate Links)

If this mashup inspires you to slam dunk your passion, here are some cool cricket and basketball-themed products available on Amazon India, perfect for fans of both worlds:


1. SG Maxstar Cricket Kit (Full Size)

  • Includes bat, pads, gloves, helmet, and bag — perfect for upcoming cricketers.

  • Price: ₹4,999 approx.

  • ⭐ Reviews: 4.3/5 – “Value for money and great for beginners.”

  • ⌚ Buy Now on Amazon

👉 


2. Cosco Dribble Basketball Size 7

  • Durable rubber, perfect for street and indoor play.

  • Price: ₹600 approx.

  • ⭐ Reviews: 4.2/5 – “Great grip, good bounce.”

  • ⌚ Buy Now on Amazon

👉 


3. Nivia Basketball Net + Ring Combo

  • Easy to install, rust-resistant metal ring.

  • Price: ₹1,299 approx.

  • ⭐ Reviews: 4.1/5 – “Great for home courts.”

  • ⌚ Buy Now on Amazon

👉 


4. IPL Official Jersey – Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

  • Lightweight, breathable CSK jersey — channel your inner Dhoni.

  • Price: ₹1,299 approx.

  • ⌚ Buy Now on Amazon

  • ⭐ Reviews: 4.4/5 – “Perfect for match days!”

👉 


5. Nivia Airstrike Basketball Shoes

  • Non-marking rubber sole, stylish, good for hoops and streetwear.

  • Price: ₹1,999 approx.

  • ⭐ Reviews: 4.3/5 – “Comfortable and durable.”

  • ⌚ Buy Now on Amazon

👉 


“One moment you're smashing a six, the next you're posterizing your teammate over a hotel trash can.”
— The True IPL Baller Spirit 😎


🤯 Final Thoughts: Cricket & Basketball — More Alike Than You Think

Both are games of strategy, style, and superstars. Whether it’s Kohli mimicking Curry or Hardik dunking on teammates, the overlap between IPL and NBA is real, hilarious, and oddly inspiring.

So next time you hit the nets or shoot hoops — remember, you're following in the footsteps of India's coolest cricketers. Go ahead, dribble that cricket ball. (Wait, don’t do that, that’s LBW.)


🔚 Until next time, stay weird, stay sporty — and don't forget:

“Basketball teaches you to jump. Cricket teaches you to fly.”

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