While the current NBA Finals are absolutely in the focus of every true basketball fan, there is also another competition that is just getting underway on the North American continent, and in the United States itself — the 23rd FIFA World Cup.
And while the excitement on the Association's hardwoods is slowly approaching its conclusion, there is definitely one NBA star who will be keeping a very close eye on everything happening in the world of soccer. His name is Jimmy Butler.
When healthy and at his best, Butler is one of the best two-way forwards of his generation. But more than his artistry on the court, Jimmy G. Buckets has also developed a close connection with one of his personal heroes, Brazilian soccer superstar and former FC Barcelona winger, Neymar.
The friendship between the two has been well documented over the years, with Butler often making time to support his friend whenever the opportunity presents itself, so that must be the case for this year's event as well.
"I see him as a brother, you know what I mean?" Butler said in an interview in 2024. "And I'll go support, he knows this. I'll fly anywhere to go watch my brother play."
The two superstars in their respective sports have bonded over much more than their athletic accomplishments.
As Butler explained, their relationship goes beyond the regular celebrity spotlight, the games and everything that comes with being a global sports icon. It is built on regular conversations, family connections, and simply spending time together whenever their schedules allow it.
And while Neymar's talents on the soccer pitch are obvious for everyone who got the chance to see even a 30-second clip of his highlights, Butler also made sure to give his buddy flowers in another area that might surprise some people.
"He's [obviously] a great footballer. He's actually pretty good at basketball, too. Actually, now that I think about it, that little motherf—r is good at almost everything," Jimmy added.
Coming from a player who has spent over a decade competing against the best basketball players in the world, that really speaks volumes.
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While Butler is currently recovering from the torn ACL injury he suffered in late January, Neymar is preparing for a return to the biggest international stage.
The Brazilian icon, who remains his country's all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals, has not featured for the national team since suffering an ACL injury of his own in October 2023.
In a way, the two friends have found themselves dealing with very similar challenges. Both were among the best at their respective sports and spent years at the highest possible levels, and know what it is like when adversity strikes.
Mar 29, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Brazilian professional soccer player Neymar Jr. reacts after receiving a pair of shoes from Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (not pictured) after the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Now, while Butler continues his recovery away from the court, he will almost certainly be among those cheering for his longtime friend from afar. The NBA Finals may currently be dominating basketball conversations, but once the final buzzer sounds, Jimmy will likely shift part of his attention toward the soccer world. And if Neymar turns back the clock to his old self, there will be plenty to cheer for.
After all, according to Jimmy, his friend is good at just about everything.
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This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Jun 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
