Brook Lopez detailed his lifelong affinity for Disney during a media day interview, revealing that he visited various Disney parks and resorts more than 20 times during the recent offseason. Speaking to local media outlet KTLA 5 on September 29, 2023 (with media day sessions taking place locally on September 28), the 213-centimeter veteran discussed memories from his Southern California childhood alongside his twin brother and former NBA player Robin Lopez, noting that their mother brought them to Disneyland.
Tokyo Disney Resort Experiences and Height Restrictions
While Lopez praised Tokyo Disney Resort during his interview, his towering 213-centimeter frame created an unexpected obstacle at Tokyo DisneySea. Lopez pointed out that he significantly exceeds the height limits for the theme park’s Raging Spirits roller coaster. According to the official Tokyo Disney Resort guidelines, the attraction enforces a maximum height restriction of 195 centimeters, leaving Lopez unable to board.
“There are Disney attractions in the world that are too big for me to ride, and that’s Raging Spirits at Tokyo DisneySea,” Lopez said during the interview. “It’s a roller coaster, but we vastly exceed the height limit. We don’t even come close.”
Despite being blocked by the safety requirements, Lopez shared a lighthearted plan for his distant future regarding the ride. “When I’m 80 or 90 years old and nearing the end of my life, I’m going to go over there,” Lopez said. “If that attraction is still standing, I want to say, ‘I don’t care what happens. Let me on. I’ll take full responsibility for everything.’”
Affinity for Splash Mountain
Beyond the height restriction at Tokyo DisneySea, Lopez highlighted a classic attraction that remains operational at Tokyo Disneyland: Splash Mountain. The ride holds a special place for the NBA veteran, especially given its status in his home state.
“Splash Mountain is my all-time favorite ride until I die,” Lopez said. “It’s gone over here, but Tokyo still has Splash Mountain.”
The Splash Mountain at Disneyland in California permanently closed in May 2023 to undergo a complete retheming into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by the animated film The Princess and the Frog. Meanwhile, Tokyo Disneyland continues to operate its version of the water ride.
NBA Connection and Cultural Ties
The attraction’s name also carries a personal connection for Lopez. In the NBA, Lopez has earned the nickname “Splash Mountain” due to his combination of height and his ability to sink perimeter three-point shots.
Alongside his twin brother Robin, Lopez has maintained an appreciation for Japanese culture. Their enthusiasm for both international exploration and Disney parks highlighted a unique connection to Tokyo during the Los Angeles Clippers' media availability.
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