Balogun reveals LeBron James connection after copying NBA star's celebration at World Cup

Folarin Balogun’s goal celebration during the United States’ 2026 World Cup round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Wednesday has taken on a life of its own, after NBA icon LeBron James responded to the moment on social media.

Balogun scored in the 45th minute to put the U.S. ahead 1-0, marking the occasion by performing James’ famous ‘Silencer’ celebration. Speaking to media at training on Friday, the 25-year-old striker explained the thinking behind the tribute.

“Everyone knows the impact LeBron has,” Balogun said. “He’s an absolute megastar. I just wanted to bridge the gap and bring everyone together: the basketball community, the soccer community. We’re all just athletes trying to do the same thing: create history for our country.”

James, who recently announced his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers, responded to a post of Balogun’s celebration on X, giving a public shout-out to the striker. Balogun admitted he initially doubted the post was genuine.

“I just saw the tweet like you guys,” he said. “It was just surreal. I didn’t even think it was real — you never know with AI. I got told it was real, and I was very proud.”

The celebration, however, was not the only talking point from Wednesday’s match. Balogun was shown a red card that will rule him out of the United States’ round of 16 clash against Belgium on Monday at Seattle Stadium, after FIFA confirmed on Friday that he must serve an automatic one-match suspension. Balogun described the referee’s decision as “unjust.”

The dismissal drew criticism from high-profile figures including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki — a level of attention Balogun sees as proof of a broader mission being fulfilled.

“Before this tournament, we wanted to set out and bring the country together, and I feel like we’re doing that,” he said.