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Incredible but true! Rui Hachimura, the Japanese forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, was recently spotted in Havana in a series of scenes that have surprised everyone.
It's no joke: the NBA player joined Cuban children on a basketball court, rode in a bicitaxi through the city, and even traveled in an almendrón, the famous classic cars of the island.
The images were shared by Hachimura himself on his Instagram account, where he showcased unique moments from his visit to the Cuban capital.
In the photos, he can be seen walking down a narrow street and chatting with children in the middle of the public square, enjoying an atmosphere without the glare of spotlights or the protocol of major events. Just an NBA star, standing 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 230 pounds of pure strength, in direct contact with the local people.
The 27-year-old athlete, who plays both as a small forward and power forward, also shared images he took: one of a street vendor selling fruits and vegetables, another of Central Park, and a mural featuring the Cuban flag painted alongside a communist sign.
The post, showcasing those spontaneous moments away from the flashes and glamour of the NBA, went viral and has sparked a wave of comments.
Fans continually emphasize Hachimura's closeness and humility, who, despite his success in the league, demonstrates his humility through a gesture that transcends sports and becomes a true symbol of humanity.
Born on February 8, 1998, Rui Hachimura is a professional Japanese basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He has also played for the national team of Japan.
He has been playing with the Los Angeles Lakers since January 2023. In the 2024-25 season, he averages 13.1 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game.
He was born on February 8, 1998, in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, to a Japanese mother and a Beninese father. His given name, Rui, means "base" or "fortress" in Japanese; his grandfather named him this because he was a big fan of baseball.
Frequently asked questions about Rui Hachimura's visit to Cuba and basketball on the island
What did Rui Hachimura do during his visit to Havana?
Rui Hachimura rode in a bici-taxi, played basketball with Cuban children, and traveled in an almendrón during his visit to Havana. He shared these moments on his Instagram account, showcasing everyday life in Cuba away from the glitz of the NBA.
How has Hachimura's visit been received on social media?
Rui Hachimura's visit to Cuba has been well-received and has gone viral on social media. Fans have highlighted his friendliness and humility, showing that despite his success, Hachimura maintains a gesture of humanity in his actions.
What is the current state of basketball in Cuba?
Basketball in Cuba faces significant challenges. The demolition of iconic facilities such as the Kid Chocolate Hall to build a hotel reflects the decline of sports infrastructure on the island. Furthermore, there is a lack of proper attention to athletes and former sportspeople.
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