Barack Obama Attends LA Clippers NBA Game Solo Amid Ongoing Divorce Rumors with Michelle
Barack Obama Attends NBA Game Amid Divorce Rumors, Wife Michelle Absent
By Jack Bezants | Updated: 06:18 GMT, 6 March 2025
Former President Barack Obama made a solo appearance at the Los Angeles Clippers’ NBA game against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, reigniting speculation about the state of his marriage to Michelle Obama. The 63-year-old sat courtside with Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife, Connie Snyder, at the 18,000-seat Intuit Dome, where he received a roaring ovation from fans during a break in play.
Barack Obama courtside at the Clippers vs. Pistons game. (Image: Daily Mail)
The outing comes amid ongoing rumors of marital strife between the Obamas, who celebrated their 32nd anniversary in 2024. Notably, Michelle has been absent from several high-profile events in recent months, including Jimmy Carter’s state funeral and Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration—a break from tradition for former first ladies.
Divorce Speculation Intensifies
Claims of a rift gained traction last October when actress Jennifer Aniston denied tabloid reports alleging an affair with Obama, which supposedly left Michelle feeling “betrayed.” Aniston clarified on a talk show: “I’ve met him once. I know Michelle more than him.” Podcasters on Who? Weekly added fuel by asserting the couple was “living separate lives.”
The Obamas’ public absences have fueled divorce rumors. (Image: Daily Mail)
A Basketball Fan’s Night Out
Obama, a lifelong basketball enthusiast, appeared relaxed during the game. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue greeted him warmly with a hug, while star player James Harden delivered a standout performance, scoring 50 points in the Clippers’ 123-115 victory.
Obama shared a moment with Clippers coach Tyronn Lue. (Image: Daily Mail)
The former president’s ties to basketball run deep. He rooted for the Chicago Bulls during his early years in Illinois but couldn’t afford tickets during Michael Jordan’s heyday. His brother-in-law, Craig Robinson, also has NBA connections, having served as an executive for the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks.
Political Parallels
Obama’s outing followed Donald Trump’s recent congressional address, where Trump criticized transgender athletes in women’s sports. He invited Payton McNabb, a volleyball player injured by a trans athlete, to highlight his stance—a move contrasting sharply with Obama’s legacy of LGBTQ+ advocacy.
While the Obamas have not addressed the rumors directly, their continued separate public appearances keep speculation alive. For now, Barack seems content enjoying his basketball nights—even if Michelle isn’t in the stands.
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