BREAKING: Boxing Legend Manny Pacquiao Signs 1-Year Deal with Golden State Warriors, Set to Face LeBron James in NBA Debut
In a move that has stunned the sports world, eight-division boxing champion and Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao has signed a one-year contract with the Golden State Warriors. The announcement comes just weeks after his controversial draw against Mario Barrios in an exhibition boxing match. Now, at 45 years old, Pacquiao is set to make an unprecedented crossover into the NBA—as a backup point guard.
The Warriors confirmed the signing late Tuesday night, with Pacquiao expected to debut in their season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 19. The matchup will pit Pacquiao against fellow 40+ superstar LeBron James, creating a surreal clash of two all-time greats from different sports.
**From the Ring to the Hardwood**
Pacquiao, who has no prior professional basketball experience, has long been known for his love of the game. He previously played in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) as a “playing coach” in 2014, though his stint was largely ceremonial. This time, however, the Warriors are bringing him in as an official roster player, with head coach Steve Kerr joking, “We needed someone who could bring the same intensity as Draymond [Green]—just with faster hands.”
Sources within the organization say Pacquiao has been training rigorously in San Francisco, working on his ball-handling, shooting, and conditioning. While skeptics question how a 5’5” former boxer can compete in the NBA, Warriors star Stephen Curry has welcomed the challenge. “Hey, if he can dodge punches for 12 rounds, he can definitely handle some full-court pressure,” Curry quipped.
**LeBron vs. Pacquiao: The Ultimate Crossover Battle**
The Warriors-Lakers opener is now one of the most anticipated games in NBA history, with fans eager to see how Pacquiao fares against LeBron James. Social media erupted with memes and reactions, with some joking about a potential boxing match breaking out mid-game. James, ever the showman, tweeted: “Welcome to the league, Champ. Just don’t try to check me too hard… I know those hands are dangerous.”
Pacquiao, known for his relentless work ethic, has remained confident. “Basketball is about heart, speed, and strategy—just like boxing,” he said in a statement. “I may be new to the NBA, but I’ve been fighting my whole life. Don’t count me out.”
**How Will This Work?**
Analysts are split on whether this is a marketing stunt or a legitimate experiment. The Warriors, known for their innovative approach, may see Pacquiao as a high-energy bench spark—or simply a global sensation to boost ticket sales. Either way, the NBA has never seen anything like this.
One thing is certain: When the Warriors and Lakers tip off in October, the world will be watching. Can Manny Pacquiao, a man who conquered boxing, hold his own against the best basketball players on Earth? Or will LeBron and the Lakers prove that the NBA is a different kind of fight?
One way or another, history will be made.
