LOS ANGELES (AP) — Snoop Dogg made an early appearance at Intuit Dome, hours ahead of the game, long before fans arrived and even before some players.
Sporting a gray suit paired with a black turtleneck, adorned with a diamond-studded Peacock pendant and purple Chuck Taylor shoes featuring gold laces to show his unwavering support for the Los Angeles Lakers, Snoop took his time. He patiently awaited his moment as an NBA analyst alongside Reggie Miller and Terry Gannon for Peacock’s broadcast of the Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Clippers during the second half.
Having an AP reporter shadow him for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at his preparations, including a visit to the green room before the broadcast, Snoop emphasized that he was there to make a significant contribution.
“I don’t believe NBC would have given me this opportunity if they thought I was just playing around,” Snoop stated, reflecting on his global appeal during the Paris Olympics in 2024. “It’s not primarily about me; it’s about what the game needs at this moment.”
Snoop has showcased his comfort in live, unscripted formats across key television platforms over recent months. In addition to his role on NBC’s “The Voice,” he made a splash during Netflix’s Christmas Day NFL broadcast, went viral at the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl, and engaged with audiences at the Golden Globes, earning accolades from Amy Poehler and Stephen Graham. This increased visibility has deepened his partnership with NBCUniversal, expanding his influence in sports and entertainment with the upcoming Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Ahead of the game on January 5, Snoop attended production and coaches’ meetings, mingling with Steve Kerr and Tyronn Lue. He was seen near the Golden State Warriors’ locker room, occasionally dancing to his own music that echoed from inside, while he looked forward to interviewing Warriors star Stephen Curry just hours before the game.
Snoop’s approach left a mark on the players he interacted with. Curry noted, “He can fit in anywhere. It was fascinating to see all the different sides of Snoop.” Prior to this event, Curry had observed Snoop mesh naturally into the basketball scene during the Paris Olympics, easily connecting with players off the court.
Capturing the Essence of the Game
Curry recalled being surprised by Snoop’s insightful pregame interview, which included straightforward basketball questions. “He was a great addition,” said Curry. Whether he’s appearing on a global stage, a major streaming platform, or the sidelines, Snoop has a knack for reading the atmosphere. This was evident at the Arizona Bowl, where he expertly caught a deep kickoff mid-interview, spontaneously losing a shoe but not the ball, a moment that swiftly went viral.
As his presence continues to expand, Snoop’s role in upcoming NBC Winter Olympics coverage solidifies his influence across sports and entertainment for diverse audiences. Reggie Miller, who spent 18 years with the NBA’s Indiana Pacers, commended Snoop for his authenticity and engagement during production meetings, highlighting that he wasn’t merely observing but actively participating.
A Unique Perspective on Basketball
Snoop attributes much of his broadcasting style to studying iconic figures like Chick Hearn, the longtime Lakers announcer. He views his contribution as a bridge between deep basketball knowledge and accessible commentary for a wide audience. “I represent the average Joe, despite my celebrity status,” he explained, emphasizing the NBA’s evolution to welcome voices like his that can understand and communicate the game while attracting new viewers.
Once on air, Snoop quickly exhibited his unique perspective, highlighting Draymond Green’s shooting challenges while celebrating his skills as a point-forward. He noted Curry’s resilience during an injury, humorously describing their on-court chemistry. His bold personality shone through when he shouted “Inglewood” after Kerr’s ejection during a controversial call, resonating with the excited crowd in the arena.
Looking Ahead for Snoop
Open to future opportunities in NBA commentary, Snoop views this role as a natural progression in his entertainment journey. He is eager for the Winter Olympics, where he will serve as an NBC correspondent and honorary coach for Team USA, endorsing American athletes leading up to and during the games. He will also co-host an event with Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard during NBA All-Star Week next month.
“I feel like I’m evolving into a complete entertainer,” Snoop shared. “This is part of entertainment, drawing people into new interests. I’d love to do more of this.” His journey reflects a simple mantra: show up, work hard, and be open to new experiences.
“When you master who you are,” he concluded, “you come to realize you’re not one-dimensional. You evolve.”
