Every year, the Academy Awards serve as Hollywood’s biggest night, a glitzy affair where A-list celebrities arrive in extravagant gowns, custom-tailored tuxedos, and high-fashion ensembles. But in 2025, the most talked-about outfit of the night wasn’t an elegant designer piece or a bold culture statement; it was Adam Sandler’s decision to roll up in a hoodie, basketball shorts, and a fresh pair of Stephen Curry’s signature sneakers.
The moment Sandler walked into the Dolby Theatre, cameras flashed and jaws dropped. Even host Conan O’Brien couldn’t resist calling it out in his opening monologue, joking that Sandler looked like he “wandered in from a 2 a.m. video poker session.”
But for longtime fans of Sandler (and especially those in the basketball world) this was just classic Sand-Man.
Steph Curry’s Priceless Reaction
One person who absolutely loved the look? Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry.
"Nobody even thought about what I was wearing until you brought it up!"
Adam Sandler saw his way out of the #Oscars after host Conan O'Brien gave him a hard time about his choice of attire. https://t.co/nl9CxOviL4 pic.twitter.com/qktdnGr7lI
— ABC News (@ABC) March 3, 2025
Sandler’s outfit choice became even more legendary when NBA fans noticed that he was rocking a fresh pair of Curry 11s in the “Championship Mindset” colourway. Of course, Curry instantly took notice and made sure to give Sandler his flowers.
Curry posted a picture of Sandler’s Oscars look on his Instagram Story with a simple two-word caption: “@adamsandler great choice.”
Adam Sandler was really rocking Currys at the #Oscars2025 😂 pic.twitter.com/2MeWq69WXf
— Complex Sneakers (@ComplexSneakers) March 3, 2025
For NBA fans, this was a great moment. Steph and Sandler have long been mutual admirers, and the fact that Sandler chose his kicks for such a high-profile event was a massive nod to The Chef.
In an industry where NBA players are constantly competing with luxury brands, Sandler choosing comfort (and Curry’s sneakers) over high-end dress shoes was a symbolic win for basketball culture.
Adam Sandler: A Basketball Fan First, Hollywood Star Second
Even though Sandler may be more known worldwide as a comedic icon, basketball has always been a central part of his identity. From playing pickup games at his local Jewish Community Center as a kid to producing and starring in iconic basketball movies like Hustle and Uncut Gems, Sandler has never hidden his love for the game. Unlike many celebrities who dabble in sports for clout, Sandler genuinely lives and breathes hoops.
Adam Sandler is a baller. You want to be on his team in pickup. He throws dimes!!! https://t.co/fPpwFrT9Xv
— Baron Davis (@BaronDavis) May 17, 2021
It’s not uncommon to see viral clips like these of him dominating random streetball courts in New York or Los Angeles, dropping dimes in an oversized polo and baggy shorts. He’s played with NBA stars like Trae Young, Tobias Harris, and Aaron Gordon, and his genuine respect for the game has earned him widespread admiration across the basketball community.
So when he pulled up to the Oscars in his now-infamous oversized blue hoodie, baggy shorts, and a pair of Curry 11s, hoop fans all came together. The man who has built a career on his laid-back persona wasn’t about to switch things up for the sake of the red carpet. Instead, he went all the way in.
