Britain’s Prince William, left, and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge pose with Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, right, backstage of an NBA basketball game between the Cavaliers and the Brooklyn Nets on Monday, Dec. 8, 2014, in New York. AP
NEW YORK — On their U.S. visit, Prince William and his wife, Kate, stepped back from their royal roles, mingling with commoners and not relying on their entourage for everything.
Here’s a quick look at some moments reflecting a different, more down-to-earth breed of British nobility.
___
HOLDING THEIR OWN — UMBRELLAS
Braving a pouring rain and strong wind, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge each held their own black umbrella as they walked from their motorcade to the National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum.
At the museum, they signed an electronic tablet for visitors by writing simply “William” and “Catherine” — minus any title.
___
FLYING COMMERCIAL
Heading for a White House meeting with President Barack Obama on Monday, William stunned passengers on a U.S. Airways flight from New York as he entered the plane cabin.
The royals also took a commercial flight to New York from London on Sunday, and they’re expected to do the same on their return trip.
___
THE PRINCE AND THE KING
Britain’s Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, right, and his wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, talk with students Nya Hayer, right, and Steffon Bell as they visit The Door Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014. AP
On Monday, they watched the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets take on the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Barclays Center — from courtside seats, surrounded by New York sports fans in close proximity.
The heir to the British throne, wearing an open-collar plaid shirt with rolled up sleeves, paid homage to “King James” — LeBron James. And Kate smiled when the sweaty star athlete breached royal etiquette by wrapping his arm around the duchess after the game.
The two men also compared their respective shoe sizes, with William noting that James’ feet were about twice as big as the prince’s.
___
UP NEXT
William and Kate’s first trip to New York City continues Tuesday with a black-tie fundraiser for the University of St. Andrews they both attended.
RELATED STORIES
Kate visits NYC kids; Prince William joins Obama
Prince William, Kate expecting second baby—palace