The Milwaukee Bucks could secure their first NBA Championship since 1971 tonight against the Phoenix Suns. Obviously, their play on the court is the main reason for that, but could a popular childhood snack also be playing a role?
ESPN writer Baxter Holmes released an article in 2017 entitled “The NBA’s Secret Addiction”, which you can read by clicking here, where he described a recent trend with NBA team regarding Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches.
The trend began with Kevin Garnett, who made the iconic snack part of his pregame routine in his 2007-2008 season with the Celtics and was a dominant force. The trend has spread (pun intended) to many other teams in the NBA, including the Milwaukee Bucks.
Holmes says that the Bucks “might boast the NBA’s most elaborate PB&J operation” as they offer multiple styles of peanut butter, jelly, and bread for their players.
Professional athletes do tend to be superstitious, but there is more to the pregame routine than just superstition.
YouTuber Matt Pat recently released a video on his channel Food Theory, which you can view by clicking here, where he explains that the jelly and bread consist of simple carbohydrates, which give players energy immediately, while the peanut butter is packed with complex carbs, which break down slower, giving energy later.
He suggested that teams actually eat peanut butter before the game, and a simple jelly sandwich at halftime to amplify the positive effects of the components.
The Bucks and their PB&J sandwiches look to secure a Finals victory tonight in the Fiserv Forum, with tip-off scheduled for 8:00 PM.
The game will also be aired on 97.1 FM WCUB.