WWE and NBA Team Up for Opening Week Crossovers

WWE and the NBA have collaborated during the league's opening week. The partnership builds on earlier crossovers that took place throughout the year.

Wrestler Danhausen made his WWE debut in February. He appeared regularly on ESPN's NBA playoff coverage and became associated with the New York Knicks' postseason run.

Danhausen placed a curse on the Knicks during a live ESPN appearance. After he lifted the curse, the team went on an unbeaten playoff streak and won the championship.

Following the title win, Knicks player Jalen Brunson appeared on WWE programming alongside Roman Reigns for a championship acknowledgment segment on Saturday Night's Main Event.

Brunson had previously appeared on WWE television in 2024. He and Indiana Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton appeared as rivals on an episode of SmackDown.

Haliburton took part in multiple WWE and NBA crossover events for tip-off week. In his first game back after missing the previous season with a torn Achilles injury, he wore gear inspired by Triple H's return attire.