In a recent episode of the “Cousins” podcast, hosted by NBA veterans Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell opened up about the night before his historic 71‑point performance. The game, played on Jan. 2, 2023 against the Chicago Bulls, went into overtime and ended with a 145‑134 victory for the Cavs.
Pre‑game routine
Mitchell said he had never consumed alcohol before a game in his career, but “it was New Year’s, so I did have a drink — a few drinks — the night before the game.” He suggested that the modest amount of alcohol may have contributed to his focus and confidence on the court.
What the numbers show
The 71 points remain the highest single‑game total in Cavaliers history and one of the top performances in NBA history. Mitchell’s scoring outburst helped the team secure a crucial win in a tightly contested matchup.
Reactions and context
While some athletes attribute performance boosts to various rituals, Mitchell’s admission sparked conversation about the role of alcohol in sports preparation. Experts note that occasional, moderate consumption is unlikely to enhance athletic output and can carry health risks if misused.
Mitchell emphasized that he has not repeated the practice since that night, and he encourages young athletes to prioritize disciplined training, nutrition, and rest.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
