Cam Newton and Tim Tebow have shared history since their college days, and their friendship recently shone through in a pickleball matchup that fans didn’t know they needed. The two former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks teamed up and went head-to-head against other opponents in a spirited game that captured the hearts of the NFL world.
Cam Newton and Tim Tebow Entertain With Their Pickleball Skills
Newton and Tebow were captured playing together in a clip that stole the show on X. Newton, ever the showman, brought his signature energy, chasing down every shot and keeping the crowd entertained. He was dressed in a vibrant blue and orange jersey with “34” on the back and looked as dynamic as ever.
On the other hand, Tebow rocked his iconic number “15” in a white t-shirt and matched Newton’s intensity while proving himself a solid partner in the back-and-forth battle.
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Their connection on the court was a throwback to their time as teammates at the University of Florida.
The two gave fans a glimpse of what they might have been like as they celebrated their wins with hugs and chest pumps while also trying to hold each other’s backs throughout the game.
Cam Newton Credits Tim Tebow for His Success
Newton’s rise to college football greatness might have taken center stage at Auburn. However, the foundation of his iconic career was laid during his time in Florida — and much of that, according to Newton, is thanks to none other than Tebow.
In April, Newton appeared on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast and shared how his two years as Tebow’s backup shaped his mentality.
“Tim Tebow is owed a large portion of who Cam Newton really is,” Newton said, reflecting on how watching Tebow’s meteoric success inspired him in times to come.
At Florida, Tebow was already a living legend, fresh off his 2007 Heisman Trophy win. Newton, a highly touted five-star recruit, waited for his shot. It was hard for Newton to see other freshmen earn significant playing time. However, this frustration pushed Newton to redefine his mindset.
“I had to sit there and watch Tebow thrive, knowing I wanted that same spotlight,” Newton explained. “It lit a fire under me. That’s when I decided I wouldn’t just play football — I’d dominate it.”
Though Newton eventually left Florida after limited opportunities, his experience as part of a stacked Gators roster, which included stars like Joe Haden and the Pouncey twins, prepared him for the next chapter. At Auburn, he delivered one of the greatest seasons in NCAA history, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2010.
Both Tebow and Newton have transitioned into broadcasting and other ventures, but their shared history makes them a hit.