Jimmy Butler, along with other figures from the NBA’s Miami Heat, expressed their excitement Thursday about the upcoming arrival of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi at MLS’ Inter Miami. Butler, a self-confessed soccer fan, spoke during a press conference in the middle of the NBA Finals, where the Heat are competing against the Denver Nuggets.
Butler expressed his excitement to have a player of Messi’s caliber in the city of Miami, stating that Messi is one of the best players to ever play the sport. He believes fans from all over the world will come to watch Messi compete and is glad that he is now part of the Miami sports scene.
On Wednesday, shortly after Messi confirmed his intention to join Inter Miami, Butler welcomed Brazilian player Neymar to the Heat’s court, where they took a dunk together before Game 3 of the Finals. However, Butler admitted that, although he has crossed paths with Messi on occasion, they do not have a personal relationship.
In addition to Butler, veteran point guard Kyle Lowry also expressed his fondness for Messi. Lowry even wore Messi’s Argentina national team jersey on the Heat bench during a game last year. Lowry jokingly mentioned that Messi will be paid a lot of money but expressed his enthusiasm for his arrival, emphasizing the positive impact he will have on MLS and the US soccer community.
On the other hand, starting shooting guard Max Strus admitted that he does not follow soccer closely but acknowledged the importance of having Messi in Miami. He expressed his desire to meet Messi if he attended a game.
Overall, Miami Heat players, especially Butler and Lowry, are thrilled with Lionel Messi’s arrival in their city and believe he will bring positive attention, increased revenue, and excitement to MLS and the local soccer community.