Viral Basketball Player’s Interview with Reporter Sparks Social Media Buzz

The University of Florida athlete, Bennett Andersen, became an internet sensation after his team defeated Maryland Terrapins (87-71) in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Despite only scoring his second basket of the season, Andersen’s gaze during a post-game interview caught everyone’s attention. ESPN Gainesville reporter Talia Baia entered the locker room to gather statements from key players. However, Andersen’s manner of looking at Baia sparked numerous comments online. Internet users noted that Andersen seemed mesmerized by the ESPN reporter, suggesting he was smitten. One user on ‘X’ wrote, “I think a young man has fallen in love,” while another humorously remarked, “He looked at her like she was the moon and stars.” Another comment read, “This guy is in love lol.” The viral moment continued as Talia Baia, who covers sports for ESPN Gainesville and boasts over 17,000 followers on Instagram and 9,000 on ‘X,’ described the situation as ‘absolute madness.’