NBA icon LeBron James acknowledged Folarin Balogun's goal celebration during the U.S. men's national soccer team's World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia Herzegovina on Wednesday. Balogun scored in the 44th minute, giving the USMNT a 1-0 lead just before halftime at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Following his goal, Balogun performed James' well-known "silencer" celebration. James, a prominent figure in the sports world this week amid NBA free agency news, noticed the tribute and shared his reaction on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"LFG!!!!!! The (silencer) has (landed) at the World Cup! Helluva goal there Young (king). Go (USA)," James posted, accompanied by several emojis. ![Folarin Balogun doing the LeBron James "silencer" celebration.]( "Folarin Balogun doing the LeBron James "silencer" celebration.")
Balogun has become a key player for the U.S. men's national team, and he is likely to be pleased with the acknowledgment from James. The NBA free agency period has also captured significant attention, with James being a central subject after informing the Lakers of his decision not to return to the team. The basketball community is now awaiting his next move as he contemplates the potential final chapter of his career, reportedly seeking a contender and willing to accept a league minimum contract.