Adam Sandler unexpectedly played basketball at Syracuse's Melo Center before his midweek performance—here's how he managed it.
In an unexpected turn of events, Hollywood comedian and actor Adam Sandler recently graced the courts of the Carmelo K. Anthony Center at Syracuse University for a pickup basketball game.
The session, which lasted about an hour, saw Sandler don his usual on-court attire of baggy gym shorts and a colourful, floral button-down shirt. He was joined by some members of the SU athletic department, as well as former Syracuse player Jason Cipolla, whom Sandler mentioned as a friend.
The game was organised by Pete Corasaniti, a Syracuse assistant and the program's director of basketball operations, who offered the centre for the pickup game. Corasaniti, interestingly, found himself on an opposing team during the match.
Sandler, known for his love of basketball and his roles in basketball-themed movies like Hustle and some basketball scenes in Grown-Ups, demonstrated impressive ball-handling and great passing skills during the game. He even took the time to compliment Corasaniti on good shots and nice assists.
The session concluded with Sandler and his travelling crew showing a keen interest in finding more places to play pickup basketball. In a gesture of appreciation, Sandler gifted 12 tickets to his Wednesday night show at the OnCenter War Memorial to Corasaniti and the basketball staff.
There seems to be a connection between Sandler and Syracuse, as his character in the movie Big Daddy is a Syracuse law school graduate who wears Syracuse shirts. Furthermore, former NBA player Carmelo Anthony, for whom the centre is named, contributed to the pickup game along with Sandler and his travel group members.
The pickup game concluded with a group photo featuring Sandler and several members of the SU athletic department and basketball staff. A memorable day for all involved, indeed!
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