Ray Nicholson, son of legendary actor and lifelong Los Angeles Lakers fan Jack Nicholson, has shared some of his most memorable courtside experiences from his childhood. During a March 12 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the 33-year-old actor recounted both humorous and dramatic moments from his time growing up around basketball’s biggest stars.
Bryant’s hilarious prank
Nicholson recalled a particularly shocking encounter when he was just six years old, attending a Lakers game with his best friend, Beau.
“I was with my best friend, Beau, who was also six, and Kobe Bryant and Nick Van Exel pantsed us,” he revealed, explaining how the two Lakers stars pulled down their pants as a prank before the game.
Understandably, the young Nicholson and his friend were devastated by the unexpected prank.
“We started crying after it happened,” he admitted.
However, Bryant and Van Exel quickly realized their mistake.
“They felt really bad,” Nicholson added. “They actually came up and apologized and were like, ‘No, you’re a part of the team.'”
Despite the embarrassing moment, Nicholson has fond memories of growing up in the world of NBA royalty. Another unforgettable experience came years later when he was nearly taken out by a 6-foot-11 powerhouse.
“2010, Game 7, Lakers-Celtics, fourth quarter, tight game,” Nicholson recalled. “Kevin Garnett crashed into me during the game.” While it may not have been as traumatic as the prank from his childhood, it was a reminder of just how intense sitting courtside at an NBA game can be.
While Nicholson grew up in the spotlight thanks to his famous father, he has been determined to carve out his own identity in the film industry.
His latest project, Novocane, has given him the opportunity to showcase his acting skills in a villainous role, something he thoroughly enjoys.