The NBA is expanding into new territories and its influence and popularity are increasing exponentially. As part of a multi-year partnership between the NBA and the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism. This year is the second consecutive that games are happening in the Middle East. Last year, the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks played two preseason games in Abu Dhabi.?

This year Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves are playing two preseason games at Etihad Arena. With many NBA legends present in the game, it was none other than the internet sensation Khaby Lame who took the spotlight. Fans were going crazy to take pictures of him and online fans even declared him a legend and a goat.?

The Mavs got thrashed by the Timberwolves in the first game

The first game was a thrilling encounter. Luka continued showing his magic, and it was Karl-Anthony Towns of the Timberwolves who played most efficiently and emerged as a leader on offense. The Wolves managed to pull off a comfortable victory with a final score of 111-991.

The Mavs trailed by 29 points in the first half, and despite Doncic?s impressive performance scoring 25 points before the break, they couldn?t turn the tide. Kyrie Irving has a disappointing game. After playing for 14 minutes, he only scored 2 points.?

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Fans say Khaby Lame is a legend?

Khaby?s popularity is evident. He is not only an internet sensation but a celebrity outside of internet culture too. He has appeared in advertising campaigns for brands such as Hugo Boss and Pepsi and has even been featured in The New York Times and Forbes.

As he entered the arena, fans quickly started photo-bombing him. The online community found him hilarious as always and a fan quickly recognised the internet sensation. One fan retweeted about his return.

Many even declared him a ?legend?.?

Some said that Khaby is a GOAT.

One fan aptly explains why he is a legend. In his TikTok videos, Khaby silently mocks overly complicated “life hack” videos.

Seeing him interacting with arena fans, someone said “this is the first time I heard him speak”.

Mavs and Wolves are set to face-off tomorrow in the second game. It is still to be seen if Kyrie and Luka are able to find on-court synergy for a win.?

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