Bad Bunny Gives LeBron James Playful Super Bowl Shoutout

Puerto Rican superstar's lyrical jab at NBA icon sparks buzz around sports and music crossover

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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During his high-energy Super Bowl halftime performance, Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny included a lyric celebrating former Dallas Mavericks guard J.J. Barea's 2011 NBA championship win over LeBron James' Miami Heat. Fans interpreted the line as a lighthearted tease directed at the Lakers star, highlighting the ongoing connection and mutual respect between the musician and the NBA icon.

Why it matters

The subtle sports reference in Bad Bunny's Super Bowl set reflects the blending of athletics and popular culture, showcasing how artists and athletes can influence each other's realms. The nod to Barea's upset over LeBron not only sparks conversation among fans but also celebrates Puerto Rico's impact on the basketball world.

The details

During his high-energy Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny rapped a line celebrating another Puerto Rican basketball figure, former Dallas Mavericks guard J.J. Barea, saying, "Barea, the one who became champion before LeBron." This references the 2011 NBA Finals when Barea and the Mavericks' underdog team defeated the Miami Heat in six games, a memorable upset in basketball history.

  • Bad Bunny performed during the Super Bowl halftime show on February 9, 2026.

The players

Bad Bunny

A Puerto Rican singer, rapper, and record producer who has become a global superstar, known for his genre-blending music and high-energy live performances.

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player who has won multiple championships with the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers, cementing his status as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

J.J. Barea

A Puerto Rican former professional basketball player who won an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011, defeating LeBron James' Miami Heat in the Finals.

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What they’re saying

“Barea, the one who became champion before LeBron.”

— Bad Bunny, Musician

The takeaway

This moment at the Super Bowl halftime show highlights the ongoing cultural crossover between sports and music, with artists like Bad Bunny using their platforms to celebrate the achievements of athletes, especially those with shared Puerto Rican heritage. The playful jab at LeBron James underscores the mutual respect and appreciation between the worlds of basketball and entertainment.