Dobrev and Ian Somerhalder became a couple when they were photographed kissing at LAX Airport in early March 2010.
Nina later said that the couple had anticipated hearing rumors about their relationship following the event.
They attended an NBA game at the Staples Center in May 2010.
Nina and Ian began making public appearances sans their The Vampire Diaries co-stars around May 2010.
On May 27, 2010, the supposed lovebirds attended a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns at the Staples Center. Following the contest, their admirers were certain they were a couple.
An eyewitness later told Us Weekly that Dobrev and Somerhalder “looked flirty” while watching the game together.
Their Friend Confirmed They Were Dating in June 2010
Nina and Ian made an appearance at the Monte Carlo Television Festival at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, weeks after they watched a basketball game together. The Anomaly actor placed his arm around Dobrev there.
A close acquaintance of the couple told Us Weekly after the event that they were “the real deal.”
