Puka Nacua spotted at unexpected LA celebration after after offseason, antisemitism controversies

Of all the places Puka Nacua might have been expected to surface during his off-day following the Los Angeles Rams 34-0 demolition of the Saints in the preseason last Saturday, dancing at a Bat Mitzvah probably wasn’t high on the list. And yet, there was Nacua on Sunday, Aug.23, smiling and celebrating at the Jewish coming-of-age ceremony, according to videos shared on social media from guests who attended the event. The Rams star wide receiver was reportedly invited by the parents of the girl celebrating her Bat Mitzvah, the Jewish milestone traditionally marking a girl’s entrance into religious adulthood at age 12.

In the videos, Nacua helps carry the guest of honor toward the stage before later being spotted dancing among the crowd. In isolation, this story is simply a famous football player enjoying a fun celebration with family friends.However, considering Nacua’s turbulent past nine months, including accusations of antisemitism, the imagery was impossible to ignore. Last December, Nacua apologized after performing an antisemitic gesture during a livestream with Adin Ross (who is Jewish) and N3on, saying afterward he had been unaware of its offensive meaning.

The NFL publicly condemned the gesture, while Nacua acknowledged that Rams coach Sean McVay was disappointed his actions had become a distraction.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story Then came New Year’s Eve.Nacua was sued in March by Madison Atiabi, who alleged he made an antisemitic statement during a night out in Century City before biting her shoulder and leaving a visible imprint.Nacua has denied making the antisemitic remark through attorney Levi McCathern, who has acknowledged a bite occurred but characterized it as “horseplay.” The civil case remains pending.The e...