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Why Raptors' Serge Ibaka is so different on and off the court

Michael Hoad
·Writer

Toronto Raptors forward Serge Ibaka is one of the most intense players in the NBA when he’s on the court. When he’s off it, he’s cracking jokes as Mafuzzy Chef.

Why such a big difference in his two personas? It comes down to keeping a level head when he’s on the hardwood.

Those fun and fancy pre-game introductions Kyle Lowry uses to get himself game-ready? Those aren’t an option for Ibaka.

“I cannot do that, that’s not me,” Ibaka told Yahoo Sports Canada. “I cannot laugh, I cannot talk. If I start talking, I’m going to lose my focus. I have to be quiet, I have to be focused.”

Ibaka is a joyful guy off the court, but he's as locked in as they come once the ball goes up. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
Ibaka is a joyful guy off the court, but he's as locked in as they come once the ball goes up. (Getty)

Ibaka also opened up about why he regrets fighting Cleveland Cavaliers forward Marquese Chriss earlier this season, the inspiration behind his popular cooking show, and his relationship with his daughter. Watch the video at the top of this page for the full interview.

More Raptors coverage from Yahoo Sports