Netizens watching the NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets were quick to react when they saw a familiar face in the virtual crowd.
It was volleyball star Alyssa Valdez.
Valdez was featured as one of the virtual fans watching the said playoff game, holding her pet dog and smiling to the camera.
Featuring virtual fans through large screens on the side of the court was part of NBA’s innovation in the tournament bubble in order to keep competition atmosphere for players.
It was also a way to keep fans entertained at their homes as crowds remain restriction in events due to the pandemic.
Immediately, Alyssa Valdez's name trended on Twitter.