NBA players are enjoying the fruits of a lengthy offseason. During this time, while they practice hard for the next season, they are also attending to matters that interest them. Often, an NBA athlete is a fan of some other sport and makes sure to catch the live action. This can lead to the feeling of bonhomie among players from two different sports. The appreciation from someone at the top of his game can be instrumental.

In one such instance, an NBA All-Star pays his dues to emerging tennis star Ben Shelton.

Ben Shelton’s dreamy USA Open campaign

In his latest triumph, 20-year Ben Shelton defeated 14th-seeded Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 to advance to the Quarter-Final. He beat the tennis maestro who had -300 odds in his favor according to multiple sources. Thus far, he has defeated heavyweights Aslan Karatsev and Dominic Thiem too.

During his win against Paul, two-time All-Star Trae Young was also in attendance. He took to Instagram and celebrated the victory through an Instagram story. In this story, Young wrote, ”Imma fan now Young King @benshelton”. In the story clip, a victorious Shelton is soaking in the audience’s applause while Young is saying “Young King”.

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After his latest triumph, the Young King had an emotional message during an on-court interview. He glowingly said, ”We don’t panic over here (laughs). I stole him (his dad) away from the university this year. I’m really thankful to have all these guys. My dad is up there. 1 of the Florida coaches.. my mom, my sister, friends. Thank you all for your part that you play in this”.

With his family in the stands, a triumphant Shelton was naturally over the moon. He has been on fire throughout the tournament and has surpassed expectations ten-fold. After not being able to get past the second round since his outstanding Australian Open run, he has shown how far he can rise.

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The prodigy’s game has captivated many imaginations and his rocket serves have been breathtaking.

Trae Young witnessed another masterclass from Shelton

During his victory against the tough-as-rocks Paul, Shelton had 16 Aces. In this game, he had a mind-boggling 149 mph ace, the record for the 2023 US Open, which followed an opening 141 mph Ace. He had an impressive 81-69 advantage in terms of service points. This has been his hallmark throughout the Australian Open and US Open run. His impressive service maneuvers have garnered comparisons with Ace phenom Josh Isner. 

After having a down year, he has risen up to the occasion. Considering he is doing this on his own soil, the fan club has grown at an unprecedented rate. As he nabbed the Quarter-Final position, many will expect many more Ace missiles from him.

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