A lot of athletes at the top of the sporting world grew up as multi-sport stars before choosing their desired path to dominate. Some all-time greats like Allen Iverson and Patrick Mahomes were dominant in multiple sports.
However, there are hardly any instances of a player taking on both sports professionally, much less leaving one to pursue the other. Los Angeles Rams superstar wide receiver Puka Nacua wants to be among the first to make the dream a reality, and if the tape is anything to go by, he might have a chance.
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Puka Nacua Wows on the Hardwood Court
Since arriving on the scene in 2023, Nacua has established himself as one of the premier wideouts in the league and one of the league’s most charming personalities. Through interviews and media appearances, his charisma is a regular highlight.
During one such appearance, the one-time Pro Bowler spoke about his wish to retire early from the NFL, possibly as soon as he turns 30. However, he isn’t willing to give up on sports entirely, instead wanting to enjoy a basketball career overseas.
After his comments, a clip of the superstar wide receiver on the hardwood went viral on social media. In the clip, Nacua went for a classic shake-and-bake, pulling out multiple crossovers before driving hard to the rim for an up-and-under jelly layup.
The fluidity of his movement, combined with the sheer ball control and athleticism on display, had folks on social media fully onboard with the idea.
Insane: Rams superstar WR Puka Nacua could easily play in the NBA 😱🤯
Nacua wants to play basketball overseas when he retires from the NFL at 30. pic.twitter.com/jmt83pTKSg
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 25, 2025
Just 23, though, the BYU alum has some time before he meets his planned retirement age of 30. After a solid collegiate career, Nacua declared for the 2023 NFL Draft, where he was picked by Los Angeles in the fifth round with the 177th overall pick. Immediately, he showcased his talent, putting in one of the greatest rookie seasons in recent NFL history.
He tallied a then-record 105 receptions for 1,486 yards, which remains the most for a rookie in league history. Injuries derailed his second year in the league, but even with just 11 games played, he had 990 yards and three touchdowns.
For a Rams team that continues to defy the odds and remain a playoff contender even after Aaron Donald’s departure, Puka Nacua’s arrival and immediate impact were a critical reason for their success.
But for fans, if he does plan on following through with his plan, then they have close to six years left on the football field.