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Barack Obama shows up in virtual stands as stars come out for NBA Finals

The only in-person celebrities at Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday were on the court.

But the stars came out in force in the virtual stands that have become a staple of the NBA’s Disney World bubble. The courts in the bubble are flanked by video screens, giving fans the opportunity to show up virtually to support their teams.

On Wednesday, those “seats” were reserved for the stars. Former President and basketball super fan Barack Obama had a front-row seat. He was flanked by Los Angeles Lakers icons Shaquille O’Neal and James Worthy to watch the Lakers dominate the Miami Heat, 116-98.

“Good Morning America” anchor and former ESPN host Robin Roberts joined them in the front row.

“Stands” packed with NBA champions

A wider shot showed a who’s who of NBA icons in the stands, including other Laker greats Pau Gasol and Robert Horry. Dwyane Wade and Ray Allen were there to support the Heat — come to think of it, maybe Shaq was too (but probably not).

Paul Pierce sat next to Allen in the closest proximity they’ve probably been since an ugly breakup from their days together with the Boston Celtics.

That looks like Dirk Nowitzki and Bill Walton next to each other in the back row with Manu Ginobili a couple rows ahead of them.

ESPN cameras caught Kareem Abdul-Jabbar tucked away in a corner.

Worthy took notice of the company in his vicinity. He’s happy to have Obama on his team.

Also, notice the lack of love from Lakers Twitter with Horry sitting right there.

You do what you can to support your team in 2020.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and former President of the United States, Barack Obama speak in the first half during Game Two of the 2019 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on June 02, 2019 in Toronto, Canada.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
President Barack Obama seen here alongside NBA commissioner Adam Silver at the 2019 Finals when fans didn't have to attend games virtually. (Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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