Sometimes, basketball writes its own poetic script—and this season, the story of Pascal Siakam and his teammate has fans grinning from ear to ear. In a video clip that’s now making waves on social media, a younger Pascal is seen joking around with a fellow rising star at a pre-draft workout years ago. Back then, they were just a couple of hopefuls trying to impress scouts and earn their shot at the NBA. Fast-forward to now, and they’re starting side by side in the NBA Finals.
“That was fate right there,” Pascal said, laughing, as he rewatched the video during a media session. “We were just kids, man. Look at us now!”
The video, unearthed by fans and circulated by NBA Twitter, shows Siakam and his now-teammate—let’s call him “J”—chatting and messing around in between drills at a private training session, probably around 2016 or 2017. The clip is lighthearted, full of youthful energy, and gives a glimpse into a friendship and chemistry that clearly began long before the bright lights of the NBA stage. Neither one had any idea then that their paths would cross again in such dramatic fashion—on the biggest stage basketball has to offer.
“It’s crazy how things work out,” said J after Game 2 of the Finals. “We were just trying to make it. I didn’t even know if I’d get drafted. And now I’m playing for a championship with my brother.”
For Pascal Siakam, the journey to this moment has been one of grit, growth, and resilience. Drafted 27th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2016, Siakam wasn’t expected to be a star. But he quickly proved that he had more in the tank than people realized. After a G-League stint and an impressive improvement each year, he broke out in 2019, helping lead the Raptors to their first NBA championship. Now, several years later, he’s back in the Finals—this time with a different team, but with the same underdog mentality.
J’s journey has mirrored Pascal’s in some ways. Coming from a smaller basketball program, he was seen as a project by some scouts. But with hard work, hustle, and a high basketball IQ, he carved out his spot in the league. Over time, he’s grown into one of the most dependable two-way players on the roster. Together, Pascal and J have formed one of the most versatile and dynamic forward duos in the NBA this season.
Their chemistry is evident on the court. They read each other instinctively—Pascal slashing to the rim just as J kicks the ball out from the post, or J cutting hard off Siakam’s drive and dish. Defensively, they rotate and switch with fluidity, creating havoc for opposing offenses. Off the court, they’re constantly seen together—joking around in practice, hyping each other up during interviews, and sharing that same joy they had in that now-viral video.
The bond they share is more than just about basketball. It’s about respect, shared struggles, and mutual growth. “Pascal’s like a big brother,” said J. “He’s been where I want to go. And now we’re going there together.”
What makes their story even more compelling is the timing. After years of playoff heartbreaks, mid-season trades, and organizational rebuilds, everything clicked this year. Their team—widely considered a dark horse in the early season—rallied around a strong core and a defensive identity. With Pascal as a steady leader and J as a breakout postseason performer, the team steamrolled through the playoffs, knocking off higher seeds and silencing doubters along the way.
In the Finals, their bond has been crucial. In Game 1, Pascal poured in 28 points while J chipped in 22 and played lockdown defense on the opposing star forward. In Game 2, it was J’s turn to shine—scoring a career-high 31 points, with Siakam dominating the glass and orchestrating the offense. It’s been a masterclass in chemistry, and that viral video from years ago suddenly feels like destiny captured on film.
“You don’t always get to pick your teammates,” Pascal said. “But when it clicks, it clicks. We’ve been through our own paths, but to come back together here, in this moment? That’s special.”
Fans are eating it up. The video has been reshared by NBA players, legends, and fans alike, with everyone marveling at how far they’ve come. The caption “That was fate right there” has become a trending phrase, even used by commentators during live broadcasts. It’s not just a feel-good story—it’s a full-circle moment that gives sports its magic.
As the series heads into Game 3, Pascal and J remain focused. There’s still work to do. But their journey—from that casual, innocent moment caught on camera to the relentless drive of the NBA Finals—reminds us all of what’s possible when talent, timing, and belief collide.
And whether they lift the trophy in a few days or not, their story is already unforgettable.
“That was fate right there,” Pascal repeats, grinning. “And we’re not done yet.”
