Adam Sandler's Pre-Show Ritual: Hoops with College Teams
Before taking the stage on his "You're My Best Friend" tour, actor and comedian Adam Sandler has been spotted engaging in his favorite pre-show activity: playing basketball with various college teams. From Peace University in Raleigh to the University of South Florida in Tampa, Sandler's love for the game has brought him to courts across the Southeast.
Sandler's South Carolina Stop: Gamecocks and Shoutouts
During his tour stop in Columbia, South Carolina, Sandler spent time on the court with members of the South Carolina men's basketball team. Players like Josh Gray and Nordin Kapic shared photos of the experience on social media. Later at his show, Jonathan Loughran, a frequent collaborator in Sandler's films, gave a shoutout to Dawn Staley, the head coach of the South Carolina women's basketball team, acknowledging her Philadelphia roots and Eagles fandom.
From Charleston Southern to USF: An Unlikely Pickup Game
The tour took an unexpected turn at the University of South Florida. Charleston Southern assistant coach Tee Butters found himself in a pickup game with Sandler and rapper Vanilla Ice. The event, organized by USF head coach Bryan Hodgson, left Butters marveling at the surreal experience. Despite a strong start, Butters' team lost to Sandler’s team.
Sandler's Basketball Tour: FGCU and Beyond
The South Carolina and USF stops are not isolated incidents. Prior to his show in Florida, Sandler also played basketball with players from the FGCU men's basketball team. This highlights a pattern of Sandler incorporating his passion for basketball into his tour, creating memorable experiences for both himself and the student-athletes he encounters.
