The worlds of One Piece and the NBA have long shared a vibrant fanbase, with numerous collaborations amplifying this connection. Whether it’s through merchandise or cross-promotional events, the intersection of these two cultural phenomena continues to thrive.
Recently, the bond between these fandoms was spotlighted during the Eastern Conference semi-finals when Josh Hart sustained a facial injury. Rather than deter him, this incident became a point of admiration for fans of both One Piece and basketball, showcasing Josh’s remarkable resolve in the face of adversity.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the One Piece series.
One Piece Fans Draw Inspiration from Josh Hart’s Valor
The playoff clash between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, which began on May 6, 2025, reached an exhilarating conclusion when the Knicks decisively won Game 6, scoring 119-81. In the earlier Game 5, Knicks forward Josh Hart faced a significant challenge after colliding with Kornet, which resulted in a cut just above his left eye, marking the first blood of the game.
Despite the injury, Hart exemplified grit, continuing to play after receiving medical attention. This incident resonated with fans, prompting comparisons between Hart’s tenacity and the iconic “nothing happened”moment of Zoro from the Thriller Bark arc of One Piece. Enthusiasts celebrated how Hart’s toughness mirrors Zoro’s indomitable spirit in their respective battles.
Fan Reactions: Celebrating Josh Hart’s Strength
In recognition of this remarkable moment, artist Jay Kim crafted an illustration portraying Josh Hart as Zoro, reflecting Hart’s unwavering determination. Many fans widely appreciated this artwork, propelling discussions about Josh’s resilience and the seamless integration of anime themes within the sports realm.
“Josh Hart will always be on my DAWG list. Bro is a beast,”one fan exclaimed.
“I’m a Celtics fan and even I gotta admit this s**t hard as hell 😆,”admitted another fan.
Comments surfaced noting the growing trend of collaborations between anime and basketball, especially in light of previous partnerships between One Piece and the NBA.
“PUT IT ON A SHIRTTTTTTT,”suggested one fan.
“Y’all been snapping with the anime and basketball crossovers,”another fan stated.
Currently, the One Piece manga is delving into the Elbaph arc, showcasing a notable conflict involving the Straw Hats, the giants, and the Holy Knights of the World Government. As the narrative progresses towards what appears to be an all-out war, fans can anticipate moments that echo the legendary resilience showcased by Zoro in Thriller Bark.