LeBron James Impromptu Wine Tasting During Philadelphia 76ers Win
LeBron James sampled a fan’s red wine mid-game on Monday night after crashing into the stands during the Philadelphia 76ers’ 126-107 victory over the Chicago Bulls, ESPN reported. Chasing a loose ball in the third quarter with his team ahead by 11 points, James collided with season-ticket holder Troy Clemons and took a sip from Clemons’ cup of red wine.
“I wanted to see if it was worth it on my arm, how good it was. It was all right,” James said with a smile after the game, according to ESPN. Associated Press reporting noted that James finished the contest with 15 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds as the 76ers improved their record to 7-1.
The moment highlighted a lighthearted stretch for James in Philadelphia. ESPN detailed that James danced after an and-one layup that left guard Tyrese Maxey laughing hysterically, and later danced with Maxey following another scoring play.
“Listen, it’s a long marathon. If you don’t find ways to have fun throughout it, even though you’re working, even though you’re locked in, then it could wear on you,” James told ESPN regarding his approach to the season.
Fan Reaction and Prior Sideline Incidents Involving Alcohol
The fan whose wine James sampled, Troy Clemons, is a longtime Sixers season-ticket holder who grew up with Julius Erving’s sons, ESPN reported. Clemons stated that he was neither starstruck nor upset by the unexpected interaction.
“I’m just glad for him to be here,” Clemons told ESPN. “I’m not worried about the wine getting on me.”
Monday’s occurrence followed a previous incident during a live NBA game. ESPN noted a similar moment during Game 1 of the 2017 Eastern Conference semifinals, when James playfully grabbed a beer bottle from a vendor’s hand after missing an and-one layup before handing it back.
Upcoming Matchup Against the Detroit Pistons
The Philadelphia 76ers return to the court on Wednesday to face the Detroit Pistons, ESPN reported. The Pistons handed the 76ers their only loss of the young season prior to Monday’s win over the Chicago Bulls.
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