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What occurred is that they have become very good friends. Vinicius sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a match-stained kit in January, personalizing it with the phrase, “For Shai Gilgeous, you are the future. I like the way you dress.”

Gilgeous-Alexander, an All-Star for the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder, supported his friend by attending Tuesday’s first leg of the Champions League semifinal between Real Madrid and Manchester City. The two later reconnected in Madrid.

Additionally, Vinicius, 22, and Gilgeous-Alexander, 24, have a lot in common and are both celebrated for having fluid playing styles. Both are regarded as generational superstars in their respective sports. But perhaps fashion is where they are most similar. For his outfit at the Met Gala, Gilgeous-Alexander most recently garnered praise from all over the world and was awarded GQ’s most fashionable man of 2022. Basketball enthusiast Vinicius Junior also works on fashion initiatives and recently took a significant risk by openly rejecting Nike.

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Vinicius Junior shared a photo of himself and Gilgeous-Alexander on Twitter, captioned with “my bro.”

In the picture, SGA appears to be wearing a Real Madrid uniform under his leather jacket, as they both smile together. The cultural overlap between their respective sports seems to strengthen their genuine appreciation for one another. Being a professional athlete and exploring other fields is a unique experience, and meeting others with similar perspectives is likely invigorating for them.

Looking ahead, Gilgeous-Alexander will have ample time to watch as Real Madrid attempts to upset Manchester City in the second leg of their semi-final next week, as he is just beginning his offseason. Currently, the tie is level at 1-1 overall.

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