The players might be enjoying some downtime as English domestic football takes a break for the summer, but elsewhere the US basketball season is reaching an exciting denouement.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are taking on the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals and, as neither franchise has lifted the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy before, a new champion is guaranteed.
It’s best of seven, with the Pacers taking the early advantage with a come-from-behind 111-110 victory in Thursday's first game.
Basketball is a growing sport in the UK and a particularly popular one in the United dressing room too.
Leny Yoro is a big fan of the NBA and recently spoke to MUTV’s Mark Sullivan about his passion.
“I always liked the show of the NBA,”
Leny said. “You know, the players, even the video games, you know, and this is something that I play a lot.
“From around 14 years old, I started to have a little bit of interest in the basketball.
“Kobbie and Josh like it too. A lot of players watch basketball. This is a good sport for me.”
Leny doesn’t follow a team but makes sure to keep up with all the action during the season, usually on catch-up due to the time difference.
He’s also a keen follower of the young French talent coming through, including Victor Wembanyama, who was selected as the number one draft pick in 2023 by San Antonio Spurs and won Rookie of the Year at the end of his debut season.
“I don't support one team, you know?”
continued Yoro.
“I just watch all the games and maybe the highlights more because the games are really late here.
“Of course, in France we have a lot of talent in terms of basketball.
“There's Victor Wembanyama, and of course, they speak a lot in America of him – he’s a big talent, and hopefully there’s more to come.”