The NBA’s most famous wine lover got an unexpected tasting in the middle of a game. And he did not hesitate to give his review.
LeBron James took a sip from a fan’s cup of red wine after crashing into the stands during the Philadelphia 76ers’ 126 to 107 win over the Chicago Bulls on Monday, Nov. 2, 2026.
What happened with LeBron James and the red wine?
In the third quarter, with Philadelphia leading by 11, James chased a loose ball and collided with a fan holding a cup of red wine, his favorite.
Some of the red wine ended up on his arm, so he took a sip. James said with a smile that he wanted to see whether it was worth having on his arm, and judged it to be all right.
The fan, a longtime season ticket holder, said he was not starstruck or upset. He said he was just glad James was in Philadelphia and was not worried about the red wine landing on him. He grew up with the sons of Sixers legend Julius Erving.
Why is LeBron James known for wine?
James has said he drinks a glass of wine a day and has partly credited it for his longevity. His love of red wine is well known among fans and teammates. He has often shared his favorite bottles on social media.
At 41, James is in his 24th NBA season, the most in league history, and remains one of the game’s top playmakers.
It is not his first playful moment with a drink during a game. In Game 1 of the 2017 Eastern Conference semifinals, he grabbed a beer bottle from a vendor after missing a layup, pretended to take a sip and handed it back. The moment became a viral highlight.
How did James play against the Bulls?
James finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and nine assists as the Sixers improved to seven wins and one loss. He threaded passes to teammates through tight windows all night. Philadelphia controlled much of the game and pulled away for a comfortable win.
He also danced after converting a layup while being fouled, sending guard Tyrese Maxey into laughter. Moments later, the two danced together after Maxey completed a similar play. Maxey could be seen doubled over laughing on the court.
What did LeBron James say about having fun?
James called the season a long marathon and said that if players do not find ways to have fun, even while locked in, it can wear on them.
At this point in his career, he said, he wants to appreciate the small moments. He said the fans have been great to the team and that the players try to repay them by playing hard and being showmen. He described the win as a great game for the team.
Between the red wine and the dancing, it appeared to be the most fun James has had since arriving in Philadelphia.
What is next for the Sixers?
Philadelphia faces the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday. Detroit handed the Sixers their only loss of the season, a game James started at center with Joel Embiid out. The rematch will be an early test for a team that has won seven of its first eight games.
James joined the Sixers this season and won his debut against the New York Knicks. His arrival has energized a fan base that has embraced him quickly.
For LeBron James, a quick taste of red wine became one of the most memorable moments of an already strong start in Philadelphia. Fans are unlikely to forget it anytime soon.
