Alex Caruso is in on the joke. The newest Chicago Bulls addition is fully aware that he's become a cult hero during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. He also knows it wasn't always just about his play.

The Bulls guard was candid about the fanfare he's still receiving now that he's playing for a team in another conference. Clearly the love for the Bald Mamba has traveled the two thousand plus miles from Los Angeles to Chicago.

Via K.C. Johnson of NBC Chicago:

“Yeah, that’s just kind of my career at this point,” admitted the Bulls star. “Everybody just kind of likes watching me play.

Whether they’re cheering for me out of sarcasm or actual fandom or whatever it is, it comes with it,” Caruso said. “I was a little surprised it was as loud when I first came in. I would like it to be a little more warranted with some success and winning. But hopefully we’ll get to that point.”

What makes the fandom for Alex Caruso a little more complex is the fact that he's an excellent performer on the court. He's not just a novelty player – he's been a proven contributor to winning. He's doing the best he can to get cheers for his play rather than for his viral persona.