How a Basketball Superfan's Passion for the Game Found a Home in China and Beyond

John Sweeney, known as Jiggly Boy, is a prominent figure in the basketball world. He is currently courtside at the NBA All-Star weekend in San Francisco, where he has been a dedicated fan for decades. He recently participated in a special basketball game in San Francisco's Chinatown alongside a Chinese former footballer and a Chinese comedian.

His connection to the sport has expanded, particularly in China. He has gained a large following on RedNote and Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok. He is recognized for his viral dance celebrating NBA star Kevin Garnett and the Minnesota Timberwolves from a 2003 NBA game. His passion for basketball has made him a beloved figure among fans worldwide.

His nostalgic videos, including a reflection on his viral moment with Kevin Garnett, have resonated with Chinese audiences. His initial post received over 220,000 likes, and his Chinese New Year greeting video earned over 50,000 likes across both platforms. In an interview, John expressed his surprise at the positive response and his interactions with Chinese basketball fans.

John's interactions with Chinese fans have been overwhelmingly positive. He mentioned a memorable comment reflecting on the enduring loyalty of his fans. He emphasized his commitment to loyalty and enthusiasm for the game, which he believes resonates with fans globally. He has been touched by the kindness and welcoming spirit of the people he has interacted with online.

John believes in the power of joy, which has been central to his journey as a basketball fan. He feels emotional about the energy and warmth he has received, especially from China. He sees himself as a beneficiary of this cultural exchange, admitting he never intended to build bridges but is grateful that his passion can connect people worldwide.

He expressed interest in experiencing the Village Basketball Championships in China, which he hopes to experience if given the opportunity. He relates to the passion people show for basketball in their communities. He is eager to experience China's basketball culture firsthand and explore other aspects of Chinese culture, including operas and cuisines. He is looking forward to his own trip, especially to connect with his sons, who have studied Chinese and love China. For John, it all comes back to the pure joy of the game.