Basketball icon LeBron James has praised Folarin Balogun after the United States striker copied his trademark “Silencer” celebration during America’s World Cup victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun found the net twice in the US’ 2-0 win on Wednesday and performed James’ signature celebration on both occasions, although his first goal was later ruled out for offside.
“THE (Silencer) HAS (Arrived) at the World Cup!” James wrote on X, accompanied by a shushing emoji and another showing a plane landing.
“Helluva goal there Young (King)!” added James, popularly known as King James, using a crown emoji.
The post has since attracted nearly four million views on the platform.
James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, is widely known for using the celebration after scoring crucial baskets, especially in high-pressure moments.
The dance involves raising his knees, pressing both palms downward and tapping his chest, symbolising that he has “silenced” a loud or hostile opponent.
Balogun, 24, was born in New York, raised in London, and currently lives and plays in France. He is also known to be a passionate basketball fan.
When US football scouts sought to convince him to represent America instead of England or Nigeria, they reportedly flew him to Florida and treated him to courtside NBA tickets.
The forward has scored three goals at the ongoing World Cup, helping the United States reach the round of 16.
However, he will miss Monday’s clash against Belgium after receiving a red card in the second half of the Bosnia match.
James, 41, also made headlines this week after announcing he would leave the Los Angeles Lakers but return for a historic 24th NBA season with a new franchise.