It’s an incredible spectacle to witness basketball legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and recent NBA champion Jayson Tatum all in the same venue. Fans are truly privileged to see these icons, especially as they come together to play as a team. The energy and excitement in the air are palpable, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Their pre-game routines had never been seen together on the same court, let alone in the same shot. However, one lucky fan managed to capture it all from a single angle: LeBron’s iconic chalk toss, Tatum’s ear-touching superstition, and Steph’s classic sprint. It was a magical moment, blending the unique rituals of these basketball legends into one unforgettable scene.

People began questioning the reason behind these rituals and why superstitions play a key role in sports, or perhaps some might see them only as tradition. What is truly impressive is that these routines now play a fundamental role for all these athletes who come together for a special cause: to bring home an Olympic medal.

The meaning behind the rituals

Everything holds significance and a story behind it. Let’s begin with LeBron James, who transformed the chalk toss into an iconic ritual before every game since his rookie season with Cleveland in 2003. His routine involves walking to the side of the court, coating his hands in chalk, and theatrically tossing it into the air before clapping. Fans often join in, raising their hands in sync with his, adding to the spectacle and the tradition of the moment. Interestingly, this gesture was first popularized by none other than Michael Jordan during his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, suggesting LeBron pays homage to the basketball legend with each toss and also to reduce the sweat in his hands.

During an interview, Jayson Tatum revealed the reason behind his ritual, the meaning behind it, and why he does it before every game. It all boils down to being grateful for the place and the privileged position he finds himself in, ensuring that he always prays before any competition since he was a child. He always touches his ear because it’s something he does with his grandmother as a way to acknowledge her, a tradition they’ve had since he was in elementary school and perhaps a kind way to remind himself that he is not dreaming.

As for Steph Curry, his pregame sprint isn’t just a routine-it’s a throwback to his early NBA years, where he and teammate David Lee would race to the baseline for fun. Now, it’s his way of stoking adrenaline and settling nerves before the game begins, a ritual that’s as much about focus as it is about tradition.

These glimpses into their rituals not only humanize these basketball stars but also deepen our appreciation for the personal motivations that drive their performance on the court.