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via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 28: President Barack Obama jokes with former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal on the basketball court during the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House March 28, 2016 in Washington, DC. The tradition dates back to 1878 when President Rutherford B. Hayes allowed children to roll eggs on the South Lawn. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
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via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 28: President Barack Obama jokes with former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal on the basketball court during the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House March 28, 2016 in Washington, DC. The tradition dates back to 1878 when President Rutherford B. Hayes allowed children to roll eggs on the South Lawn. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
Phoenix Suns‘ journey in the NBA title race came to an end at the hands of the Denver Nuggets. Despite putting up a strong fight, they were unable to overcome the formidable presence of Nikola Jokic and his team. Throughout the playoffs, a particular star player from the Suns received widespread acclaim for his exceptional offensive performance. Notably, former President Barack Obama was observed giving a significant shoutout to this Suns star, further highlighting his impressive contributions to the team.
In a bid to secure a championship victory this season, Kevin Durant joined the Phoenix Suns. Despite the Suns being considered strong contenders, they faced a formidable challenge from the Nuggets. Phoenix eventually fell short in their pursuit of a title. It is worth noting that the Suns have never claimed the NBA Championship throughout their history. While they have reached the Finals a few times, their most recent appearance ended in defeat when the Milwaukee Bucks eliminated them in six games.
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Phoenix Suns star receives shoutout from the POTUS
During his tenure as the President of the United States, Barack Obama was renowned for his passion for basketball. He frequently welcomed NBA championship-winning teams to the White House. Recently, Obama expressed appreciation for a prominent player from the Phoenix Suns, giving him a special mention.
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USA Today via Reuters
May 5, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) celebrates against the Denver Nuggets in the second half during game three of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
In a recent interview, Barack Obama was heard acknowledging a person who was playfully mocking another individual, saying, “He looks like Devin Booker.” Obama continued, stating, “I’m sure you do not have his jump shot. I know you don’t have his game.” Devin Booker who stands at 6’5″ is widely recognized as one of the best shooters in the game, consistently scoring above 30 points during the postseason. The shoutout from the former POTUS is likely to pleasantly surprise Booker.
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Earlier, Obama had come to Phoenix to show his support for Democratic candidates at a rally at Cesar Chavez High School but addressed a topic of great interest to Suns fans — and their franchise player.” I wanted to come out here not only because it is sunny and warm, but also, you know, there’s been a lot of these rumors about me and the Phoenix Suns,” said Obama jokingly, getting a rise out of the crowd.
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Devin Booker had seen Obama’s comments, responding with “I’ve heard every type of name. It’s not really my main focus. Obviously, I have respect for the president. It was one of those things that was cool to hear.” Devin Booker’s remarkable season, averaging 27.8 points, over 5 assists, and over 4 rebounds, has drawn comparisons to the legendary Kobe Bryant.
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As Bryant was renowned for being a scoring champion, many fans have observed similarities between Booker’s playing style and that of Kobe. Some fans, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with these comparisons, feeling that Booker has a long way to go before reaching the same level of greatness as Kobe. They believe Booker must achieve significant milestones before being equated to the late basketball icon.
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