Drake Sparks Controversy with Celtics Hat Linked to Pablo Escobar

Rapper's rare sports memorabilia purchase raises questions about ethics and aesthetics

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Drake was recently spotted wearing a vintage Boston Celtics hat that reportedly traces back to the personal collection of infamous Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar. The hat's alleged provenance has sparked intense debate online, with some fans seeing it as a bold flex and others questioning the ethics of wearing an item connected to one of history's most notorious criminals.

Why it matters

Drake has long embraced the imagery of power, excess, and legacy in his brand, often flirting with the aesthetics of organized crime. This latest acquisition of a piece allegedly tied to Escobar continues that trend, raising questions about the line between cultural commentary and potentially glamorizing criminal activity.

The details

The classic green Celtics cap that Drake was photographed wearing is said to come with provenance linking it to Escobar's personal collection. Escobar was known to frequently wear American sports apparel, particularly NBA and MLB gear, during the 1980s and 90s. Over the years, items connected to the infamous drug lord have surfaced through auctions and private collectors, often commanding high prices due to their controversial history.

  • Drake was recently spotted wearing the Celtics hat.

The players

Drake

A Canadian rapper known for his interest in rare memorabilia, high-end art, and culturally loaded items that spark conversation.

Pablo Escobar

A notorious Colombian drug kingpin who was famously photographed wearing American sportswear, including NBA and MLB gear, during the 1980s and 90s.

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The takeaway

Drake's acquisition of this Celtics hat linked to Pablo Escobar's estate highlights the complex relationship between cultural commentary, aesthetics, and the potential glamorization of criminal activity in the age of viral fashion. As a high-profile collector, Drake's choices continue to spark debate about the boundaries of artistic expression and social responsibility.