During Olu Fashanu’s NFL draft celebrations, the reactions of his mother, Paige Fashanu, and his rumored girlfriend caught everyone’s attention and quickly went viral.
As the New York Jets announced their selection of the 21-year-old former Penn State star with the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the dynamics between Paige and the unidentified blonde next to her became a focal point.
Many viewers interpreted Paige’s actions as her trying to block the blonde from getting closer to celebrate with Fashanu. Sitting between her son and the blonde, Paige seemed to accidentally bump her while enthusiastically embracing her son, the 6-foot-6, 312-pound offensive tackle.
Though initially it looked like Paige was simply caught up in the excitement of the moment — understandably so — she soon extended a warm gesture by putting her arm around the blonde in a conciliatory manner. Before the announcement, they were even seen holding hands, indicating a supportive atmosphere despite the awkward moment.
However, the internet had its field day with the situation.
“The girlfriend couldn’t get in there for anything,” commented one spectator.
“His mother was definitely in pass pro against the girlfriend. If he’s half as good as her, we’re set for the next decade,” another joked.
The incident was not lost on SportsCenter anchors Randy Scott and Gary Striewski, who featured the moment in a segment on Friday’s show.
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“This is textbook, if you’re reaching, I’m teaching,” Striewski remarked, commenting on the blonde’s attempt to reach over Paige to get to Fashanu.
They dramatically paused the footage several times to emphasize their points.
“Mom goes in for the hug,” Scott observed, to which Striewski responded, “She deserves it first.”
They highlighted when Paige pumped her fist in the air. “She’s creating separation,” Striewski noted. “She’s in pass pro!”
Scott added, “Her skills are his skills, just reborn into him,” while Striewski humorously suggested, “Mom might be a pick in night two or three of the draft.”
Fashanu, recognized as a two-time All-American and the 2023 Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year, now steps into the professional arena amid memorable draft night celebrations.