Rui Hachimura Turns Lakers Fans into Clippers Supporters with Jersey Swap

Rui Hachimura Encourages Lakers Fans to Support Clippers

After leaving the Lakers, Rui Hachimura is eager for his followers to follow him to his new team. On his official Instagram, @blacksamurai, a video surfaced showing Hachimura handing over a Clippers jersey to a fan who was originally wearing his No. 28 Lakers jersey. The forward asked the boy to trade it for the fresh Clippers gear.

"This one looks way cooler," Hachimura said about the Clippers jersey. "Everyone, please go buy the Clippers jersey."

Career Shift and Stats

Hachimura signed a two-year deal worth $28 million with the Clippers in July. He spent parts of four seasons with the Lakers, posting averages of 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. During the 2025-26 season, he shot an impressive 51.4% overall and 44.3% from beyond the arc.

Challenges Ahead for the Clippers

Joining the Clippers comes at a difficult time. The team recently faced significant penalties including the loss of five first-round picks and a $30 million fine. Owner Steve Ballmer and basketball operations president Lawrence Frank are also facing suspensions. The organization has long struggled to escape the Lakers' shadow.

The upcoming 2026-27 season represents a chance to regain trust after a major scandal this summer. Interim president of basketball operations Trent Redden addressed the media:

"Our fans deserve to hear from us before this, and for that we're sorry. We've been listening to their thoughts, concerns, and emotions. They mean everything to us. We hope to fulfill our promises, rebuild trust, and move forward through this time."

Redden added, "This franchise often does its best work when backed against the wall. We aim to represent our fans by coming out fighting in tough times."

Building the Fanbase

The Clippers are working hard to keep their current supporters, but it seems Hachimura wants to draw in Lakers fans as well as he embarks on his first season with the team.

• Player: Rui Hachimura
• Former Team: Los Angeles Lakers
• New Team: Los Angeles Clippers
• Contract: Two years, $28 million
• 2025-26 Stats: 11.5 points/game, 3.3 rebounds/game, 51.4% shooting, 44.3% from 3-point range
• Clippers Penalties: Lost five first-round picks, fined $30 million
• Personnel Suspensions: Owner Steve Ballmer and President Lawrence Frank