Ben Humrichous goes viral for misidentification

Forward Ben Humrichous is making headlines this week for the most unexpected reasons. No, it has nothing to do with on-court production or his recent commitment as a Big Ten basketball player Illinois.

Rather, the talented transfer is being mistaken for a prankster whose antics went viral during a television broadcast years ago.

Now we've all seen those “Do you want to feel old?” Posts often shared on social media as a childhood hero moves on to the next phase of life.

This may be due to the son or daughter of a sports superstar stepping into the spotlight as a college or professional player. Or maybe an actor taking on a new role makes you doubt your age because you just don't want to believe that time has passed so quickly.

In Ben Humrichous's case, it's all about the personality of a beloved sports moment that emerges years later.

Coastal Carolina won the 2016 College World Series, defeating Arizona in the finals. However, before they reached that crucial title streak, they had to defeat TCU in an elimination showdown.

During the broadcast of this contest, a young fan went viral for refusing to break eye contact with the ESPN cameras.

The result was an epic look that quickly made the rounds on social media.

Almost a decade later, this clip has resurfaced in connection with Ben Humrichous' signing decision. Is Illinois transferring the child from the video?

An X account makes you believe that!

Crazy that the College World Series viral student is now playing basketball for Illinois. pic.twitter.com/SAg3TqDMMY

— Craig Choate (@craigwchoate) April 30, 2024

The user posted this video along with pictures of Humrichous with the caption: “Crazy that viral College World Series student is now playing basketball for Illinois.”

You have to admit, there is a similarity!

However, Humrichous is not the CWS viral personality, but he saw the post. The hooper had a hilarious reaction to the case of mistaken identity online.

“There’s no way I’m going to go viral like that.” he joked with a retweet of the comparison.

The original author of the misinformation, a basketball fan from Illinois, responded in the comments section by saying, “Sorry about that man!” I didn't think this reaction would happen! Too many people think it's true. I’m happy to have you there.”

Where are the community notes?

In this case, everything is good because everyone enjoyed the post.

Ben Humrichous will head to Champaign for his senior season to help the Illini return to the NCAA Tournament. He will try to show the fans who he is Really is when he puts his foot on the ground.