The Parisians at NBA Paris Game 2020

With courtside seats, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Marco Verratti, Mauro Icardi, Neymar Jr and Kylian Mbappé got a close-up view of the first NBA game played in France. "I like basketball and to see good matches," said Verratti. "It's special to have the opportunity to attend an NBA game here in Paris in a great arena. Even though we're footballers, we admire talented players in other sports. There's a lot of talent on the court."

"It means a lot to us, because we really like the NBA," said Thiago Silva. "I often watch games, even if it's not easy because of the time difference. So it's a great opportunity to be able to go to a game." Neymar Jr. was just as happy. "It's a great event!" said the Paris number 10. "It's fantastic, I'm very happy to be able to see the first NBA game in Paris. I hope it's the first of many."

Kylian Mbappé felt the same: "I'm a big basketball fan, so I'm very happy. It's fabulous to be able to attend this event." The world champion got a chance to talk to another France international, Nicolas Batum, the Hornets' number 5, who also enjoys football and is a big Paris Saint-Germain fan. Not such a good night on the court for Batum though as his team lost 116-103 to Milwaukee star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his teammates.

There was also the opportunity for the football stars-cum-basketball fans to wear the new products of the Paris Saint-Germain x Jordan collaboration. "I'm very happy with these clothes," said Thiago Silva. "Jordan is special. He was a fantastic player, and the fact he's interested in football is great." "The new collection is really superb," said Verratti. "We're fortunate to share that with Michael Jordan and work with him. We're proud. I hope it'll bring us luck."