The biggest star in Los Angeles on Sunday night wasn’t LeBron James, but Shohei Ohtani, who made a rare public appearance with his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, at the Lakers game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The couple, who have largely stayed out of the public eye since Ohtani’s MVP announcement and the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series victory, were spotted enjoying the game at Crypto.com Arena.
A Rare Appearance for Baseball’s Power Couple
Since announcing their marriage in February, Ohtani and Tanaka have kept much of their relationship private, adding an air of mystery to one of sports’ most high-profile pairings. However, Tanaka was more visible during the World Series, posing for photos with fans and attending Ohtani’s MVP ceremony alongside him.
Despite her support, she was overlooked by the MLB during the event, a moment that didn’t go unnoticed by fans.
The couple’s appearance at the Lakers game offered a rare glimpse into their life off the field. Cameras captured them smiling and enjoying themselves, despite the absence of LeBron James, who missed his first game of the season. Tanaka, a former professional basketball player in Japan, looked particularly at home courtside, her passion for the sport evident as she cheered for the home team.
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Mamiko Tanaka’s Basketball Background
Tanaka’s connection to basketball runs deep. A standout player in Japan’s Women’s Basketball League, she played for the Fujitsu Red Wave from 2019 to 2023.
During her final season, she averaged 24 minutes, 7.8 points, and 6.0 rebounds per game, showcasing her talent on the court. Her love for basketball undoubtedly made the outing to Crypto.com Arena a meaningful experience.
The Lakers, unfortunately, could have used Tanaka’s skills, as the team struggled in LeBron’s absence. Still, the game wasn’t without highlights, with cameras catching the couple enjoying themselves and even receiving custom Lakers jerseys as a gesture of appreciation from the team.
A Beloved Duo in LA
Ohtani, already a fan favorite in Los Angeles thanks to his historic performances with the Angels and his role in the Dodgers’ championship run, has cemented his status as one of the city’s most celebrated athletes.
His wife, Mamiko, has quickly endeared herself to fans as well, with her down-to-earth interactions and visible support of her husband.
Their attendance at the game, along with gifts of personalized jerseys, added another chapter to their growing connection with LA sports culture.
While Ohtani and Tanaka’s dog, Decoy—who famously appeared during Ohtani’s MVP announcement—didn’t join them this time, fans were thrilled to see the couple enjoying their time in the city.
A Night Without LeBron, But Plenty to Cheer About
Though LeBron James was sidelined, the Lakers game still featured another young star in Bronny James, who was in uniform for the team.
Ohtani and Tanaka appeared captivated by the action on the court, adding to their growing list of memorable moments as they embrace life in Los Angeles.
For fans, seeing Ohtani and Tanaka out and about is a rare treat. Their love for sports and their shared moments of joy continue to make them one of LA’s most beloved power couples.
Whether courtside at a Lakers game or on the diamond, Shohei Ohtani and Mamiko Tanaka never fail to captivate their audience.
