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Rui Hachimura Turns Lakers Fan Into Clippers Supporter with Jersey Swap

Rui Hachimura has left the Los Angeles Lakers and is eager for his followers to follow suit. On his official Instagram, @blacksamurai, he shared a video showing him handing over a Clippers jersey to a fan who was originally sporting his No. 28 Lakers jersey.

"This one looks way cooler," Hachimura remarked about the Clippers gear. He urged everyone to consider buying the new jersey as well.

New Chapter With the Clippers

In July, Hachimura signed a two-year deal worth $28 million with the Los Angeles Clippers. He had spent parts of four seasons with the Lakers, averaging 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while shooting 51.4% overall and 44.3% from beyond the arc during the 2025-26 season.

His move comes at a challenging moment for the Clippers franchise. The team faces penalties including the loss of five first-round draft picks, a $30 million fine, and suspensions affecting owner Steve Ballmer and president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. The Clippers have long lived in the shadow of their city rivals, the Lakers.

Clippers Seek Redemption in 2026-27 Season

The upcoming season offers a chance for the Clippers to regain fan trust following a summer filled with controversy. Interim president of basketball operations, Trent Redden, addressed the media during Clippers media day, expressing regret and commitment.

"Our fans deserve to hear from us before this, and for that we’re sorry. We’ve been listening to the thoughts, the concerns and feeling the emotions of our fan base. They mean everything to us. … We hope to fulfill our promises to them, to build their trust and move forward through this time."

He added, "This franchise often has done its best work with its back against the wall … We hope to represent our fans the same way we always have in dark times, by coming out fighting."

Hachimura’s Role in Expanding the Fan Base

The Clippers are working hard to keep their existing supporters, but it seems Hachimura aims to attract some Lakers fans too as he prepares for his first season with the team.

  • Player: Rui Hachimura
  • Previous Team: Los Angeles Lakers
  • New Team: Los Angeles Clippers
  • Contract: Two years, $28 million
  • 2025-26 Stats: 11.5 points, 3.3 rebounds per game; 51.4% FG, 44.3% 3P
  • Clippers Penalties: Loss of 5 first-round picks, $30 million fine
  • Suspended Personnel: Owner Steve Ballmer, President Lawrence Frank

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