'Thank you Benito': Jalen Brunson, J.J. Watt react to Bad Bunny's Super Bowl LX performance on social media

Global superstars including New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson and NFL legend J.J. Watt took to social media on February 8, 2026, to praise Bad Bunny’s high-energy halftime performance during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The Puerto Rican artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, delivered a visually stunning set that blended reggaeton, trap, and Latin pop, marking a historic moment for Latin representation on the NFL's biggest stage. The flurry of online reactions erupted as fans and athletes alike sought to acknowledge the cultural impact and production value of the mid-game spectacle, which served as the centerpiece of the league's flagship championship event. Jalen Brunson led the charge of professional athletes expressing their admiration, posting a simple yet resonant "Thank you Benito" on his X (formerly Twitter) account shortly after the performance concluded. The basketball star's sentiment was echoed by retired defensive great J.J. Watt, who shifted from his typical football analysis to laud the artist's stage presence and the sheer scale of the choreography. These endorsements from major sporting figures underscore the increasing crossover between professional athletics and global music culture, illustrating how the Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into a mandatory viewing event for celebrities across all industries. Beyond the athlete testimonials, the performance was widely characterized by critics as a masterclass in modern live production. Bad Bunny utilized a massive platform and a legion of backup dancers to navigate through his catalog of global hits, further solidifying his status as one of the world's most influential performers. The social media discourse surrounding the event remained a top trending topic throughout the night, with millions of users discussing the setlist and the significance of a Spanish-language artist headlining the American sporting calendar's most prestigious slot.