Angel Reese brought a playful moment to the sidelines during the Los Angeles Lakers’ narrow 105-104 win over the Orlando Magic on Saturday, taking a light-hearted jab at LeBron James using one of his most famous viral clips.
The Chicago Sky forward was seated courtside when she recorded a TikTok video alongside a friend, using the well-known “that ain’t our ball” audio. The clip begins with both facing the camera, as Reese‘s friend lip-syncs the viral sound while Reese gestures along.
The camera then turns toward the court, where James can be seen standing in the corner, tying the joke directly back to the NBA star.
The reference comes from a widely shared moment during Game 2 of the Lakers‘ first-round playoff series against the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA Bubble.
During that game, James reacted dramatically from the bench after a ball went out of bounds, insisting it had last touched Damian Lillard.
His animated reaction, shouting toward officials, quickly became a viral meme that continues to circulate online.
A viral moment revisited courtside
The original incident occurred as referees debated possession following the out-of-bounds play. James, convinced of the call, made his case emphatically from the sideline.
That reaction, paired with the phrase that inspired the meme, became one of the most recognisable clips involving the Lakers star. The team went on to win that game 111-88.
By recreating the moment courtside, Reese added her own spin to a piece of basketball culture that still resonates with fans.
Comparisons highlight gap in experience
The interaction also comes after Chrisean Rock drew comparisons between Reese and James during an appearance on the “Unapologetically Angel” podcast earlier this year.
“Because you’re doing exactly what LeBron is doing,” the rapper said.
Reese laughed off the comparison, pointing out the difference in earnings between herself and the Lakers superstar.
While Reese has quickly made a name for herself in women’s basketball, James has spent nearly two decades at the top of the sport, building a legacy that places him among the greatest players in history.
The contrast between the two remains significant, with Reese still in the early stages of her career, continuing to develop her impact on the game.
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