LeBron James and Bryce Harper Show Love for Ohio State Football at National Title Game

LeBron James and Bryce Harper are proving once again that they are huge Ohio State Buckeyes fans, showing their support at the College Football Playoff national championship game in Atlanta. Despite neither of them attending Ohio State, their love for the team is undeniable.

ESPN cameras caught both superstars soaking in the atmosphere before the game. Bryce Harper, sporting a red and white Ohio State jacket and a backwards hat, was seen on the field, fully embracing the Buckeyes’ spirit. Meanwhile, LeBron James watched from a suite, nervously sipping a drink while donning a red Buckeyes hat and a gray hoodie. With the Los Angeles Lakers having the night off before their game against the Washington Wizards, James had the perfect opportunity to support his favorite college team.

LeBron James’ Longtime Connection to Ohio State

Although LeBron never played college basketball, his ties to Ohio State football run deep. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, just a two-hour drive from Columbus, James has always had a strong connection with the university. During his years with the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron frequently supported Ohio State athletics and even narrated their championship game hype video.

In the powerful video, James delivered the inspiring message:

“It’s always been us. It is and it will always be Ohio Against The World. Our story is unfinished. Our story has one last chapter to write: the Chapter of Champions.”

His passionate involvement has left Ohio State fans wondering what could have been if James had taken his talents to Columbus instead of straight to the NBA.

Bryce Harper: An Honorary Buckeye

Unlike LeBron, Bryce Harper doesn’t have Ohio roots, but his connection to the Buckeyes is through his wife, Kayla Varner, a former Ohio State soccer player. Harper, who hails from Las Vegas, has embraced his honorary Buckeye status with pride.

In a past interview with Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff, Harper joked, “She’s the real Buckeye. I’m just kind of honorary,” showing his lighthearted support for his wife’s alma mater.

More Buckeye Love from Ohio Sports Teams

The Ohio State pride was not just limited to Harper and James. The Columbus Blue Jackets, Ohio’s NHL team, also showed their support by arriving in New York for their game against the Islanders wearing Buckeyes jerseys. This unified show of support underscores the deep connection Ohio sports teams have with Ohio State University.

Notre Dame’s Celebrity Support

While the Buckeyes had their celebrity supporters, their opponents weren’t without star power either. Travis Scott, the renowned rapper and record producer, was also present in Atlanta, rooting for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Scott even planned to premiere his new song at halftime, adding more entertainment to the already electric atmosphere.

As the championship game unfolded, it was clear that Ohio State football has a passionate fan base that stretches far beyond the students and alumni, drawing support from some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.