Watch: Nick Kyrgios fawns over LeBron James' over-the-top pre-game preparation
Nick Kyrgios recently attended an NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors with girlfriend Costeen Hatzi. He proceeded to document his experience on his Instagram handle.
The Aussie was seated courtside as he started recording a short video of LeBron James sprinkling sawdust on his palms before the game. James then took some sawdust in his hands before theatrically throwing it up in the air to hype himself up.
Knowing James' dedication to his craft, this little move would have come as no surprise to his fans. Kyrgios, on his part, was visibly impressed with the American's pre-game ritual. He congratulated James on scoring 56 points, while also appreciating his girlfriend's company.
"King James went off, put on a show and the best player in the world. 56!!!!" he wrote on Instagram. "Experience, My babygirl!!! Best seat in the house!"
The next three slides included pictures of the 26-year-old and his girlfriend before and during the game. While Hatzi was in a casual outfit, the Aussie chose to wear his lucky Lakers shorts.
Kyrgios also posted a snap of the Lakers' Russell Westbrook and the Warriors' Stephen Curry, a picture his brother Christos especially liked.
"That beautiful shot of Westbrook makes my heart warm," his comment read.
In the end, the Los Angeles Lakers snapped a four-match losing streak to beat the Golden State Warriors 124-116.
Nick Kyrgios to make his singles return at Indian Wells next week
Nick Kyrgios hasn't played any competitive tennis since winning the doubles title with good friend Thanasi Kokkinakis at the 2022 Australian Open in January. In singles, the Aussie lost to second seed Daniil Medvedev in a tight four-set match.
It should be noted that the 26-year-old pulled out of the ATP 250 tournaments in Dallas and Delray Beach last month. He will be making his singles return at the Indian Wells Masters, where he has been awarded a wildcard. Due to a lack of match practice, the Aussie will have his work cut out at the hardcourt event in the Californian desert.