Siya Kolisi extends a warm invitation to NBA's Festus Ezeli for a South African safari and local delicacies

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi recently rubbed shoulders with global royalty at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game in the US. 

The star-studded event was a true “who’s who” with Kolisi joining the likes of Barack and Michelle Obama, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and stars like Jessica Alba, Queen Latifah, Chris Tucker and Ludacris.

The highlight of the night, however, wasn’t just the celebrity sightings; it was a heart-warming (and hilarious) exchange between Kolisi and former NBA champion Festus Ezeli.

In a video now sweeping social media, Kolisi played the ultimate tourism ambassador, inviting the Nigerian-American star to experience the full spectrum of South African life.

“You must come do safari. I want to take you to the hood, the beach,” said Kolisi. 

Never one to back down from a challenge, Ezeli was quick to accept.

“I’m not afraid. You say it like I’m going to be afraid. I’m ready. I’m ready. You heard him here first, right? He’s going to take me, Festus Ezeli, and we going to go to the hood. What else are we going to try?” 

Kolisi didn’t hold back on the cultural deep-dive, suggesting a true culinary initiation. 

“I want you to try African food, sheep head, intestines, sheep feet. Come try it out.” 

The playful encounter ended with a warm embrace, with the 1.87m rugby powerhouse looking up at the 2.10m Ezeli and laughing: “Good to see you, my brother, you make me feel small!”

Fans took to the comments to praise Kolisi for being authentic. 

@simbaruwoko commented: “I’ll take you to the hood”… Siya never change broer 🤣🤣.

@mbalijavu_za said: “Never thought our own Captain would be fangirling🥹🤣❤️ love it for him❤️❤️.”

@the_refined_mc added: “I just hope they know over there in Trump land that, that @siyakolisi has the Key to a whole Nation 🇿🇦.”