Rihanna, Chris Brown
Recording artist Rihanna leans her head on Chris Brown as they sit together at the NBA basketball game between the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers in Los AngelesReuters

R&B singer Rihanna's recent appearance with Chris Brown has fuelled speculations of a patch-up, after the two were spotted watching a basketball game between the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers game on Tuesday.

Their rare display took place a couple of days after Rihanna's on-and-off lover reportedly snubbed her on Christmas eve at her native Barbados.

Their appearance at the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers game in Los Angeles came after weeks of speculation that the ex-couple is back together after an ugly breakup in 2009.

Rihanna and Brown looked inseparable as they chatted and leaned against each other during the game. Photos taken during match added more to the rumours that they are indeed back together.
[PHOTOS OF RIHANNA AND CHRIS BROWN AT KNICKS-LAKERS GAME]

It was earlier reported that Rihanna broke down in tears after Brown failed to turn up for her Christmas party.

"Rihanna was a mess. Her best friend Melissa was being very protective because RiRi was so upset. It was supposed to be her big Christmas party for her family and friends but she just wasn't into it. She had told her family Chris would join her. They were prepared to forgive him for what happened in the past and welcome him back. It seems she just can't get over him. She thinks he's playing games with her mind," The Sun quoted a pal of Rihanna as saying. 

It may be recalled that Chris Brown was arrested in 2009 for assaulting Rihanna at a pre-Grammy Awards party. He is on probation until early next year for the assault.

[PHOTOS OF RIHANNA AND CHRIS BROWN AT KNICKS-LAKERS GAME