
All-Star Devin Booker added a little crossover flair to the Tigers’ historic MLB Championship celebration, proudly sporting a signed Tarik Skubal jersey just hours after Detroit clinched its first World Series title since 1984.
The Phoenix Suns guard — and Michigan native — took to social media Sunday night with a photo that quickly went viral: Booker grinning in a vintage-style Tigers jersey signed by the Tigers’ ace pitcher, Tarik Skubal, with the caption: “Detroit vs. Everybody. Let’s go!”
Booker, who’s never been shy about his Detroit sports roots despite playing in the Valley of the Sun, made it clear where his baseball loyalties lie. Skubal, a key figure in the Tigers’ championship run, delivered a dominant postseason performance that sealed his place in franchise lore — and earned him some high-profile admiration along the way.
“Skubal’s been different this year,” Booker said in a follow-up video posted to his Instagram story. “That energy. That focus. I respect it. I had to rock the jersey for my guy.”
The 28-year-old NBA star and former Kentucky Wildcat grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has long expressed his love for Detroit sports teams, from the Pistons to the Red Wings — and now, most notably, the Tigers. His gesture was more than just fashion; it was a heartfelt tribute to a city that continues to shape his identity, even from thousands of miles away.
Skubal responded on X (formerly Twitter) with a repost of Booker’s photo and the caption: “Respect, Book. Let’s run it back 🐅🔥”
The Tigers’ World Series run was powered by a blend of young talent and elite pitching, with Skubal leading the charge. The 28-year-old southpaw was lights-out in Game 6 of the series, throwing seven scoreless innings and cementing himself as the postseason MVP in the eyes of many fans.
Booker’s shoutout highlights the growing bond between stars across sports — and across cities. In an era of personal branding and crossover fandom, moments like this resonate with fans who crave authenticity. For Detroit, seeing a hometown hero like Booker join in the celebration only made the title feel even sweeter.
As the city basks in the glow of baseball glory, one thing’s for certain — Tarik Skubal has earned more than just a ring. He’s earned the respect of one of the NBA’s brightest stars.
And maybe, just maybe, Devin Booker has earned himself a first pitch at Comerica Park next spring.