Donovan Mitchell attributes 71-point performance to alcohol consumption before game

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 3:14 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Donovan Mitchell attributes 71-point performance to alcohol consumption before game
Summary

Donovan Mitchell recently credited alcohol consumption for his 71-point performance during a January 2, 2023, game against the Chicago Bulls. The Cleveland Cavaliers guard stated that he had consumed drinks on New Year's Eve, the night before the matchup in Cleveland. Mitchell recorded 16 points in the first half but surged in the second half and overtime to secure a 145-134 victory. During a discussion on the Cousins podcast, he noted that he had never consumed alcohol before a game previously and has not done so since. Despite the record-setting production, Mitchell emphasized that he focused on simply keeping the game close during the second half before his shooting rhythm increased. He credited free throws and increased aggression for his ability to accumulate points in the final frames.

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By the Numbers
  • Donovan Mitchell scored 71 points during a 145-134 overtime victory against the Chicago Bulls on January 2, 2023.
  • Mitchell attributed his performance to consuming alcohol the night before the game.
  • The guard recorded only 16 points in the first half before scoring 55 points across the remainder of the game.
  • He connected on 4-4 shooting in overtime, including 3-3 from three-point range.
  • Mitchell stated he has never consumed alcohol before a game at any other point in his career.
Latest Updates
  • 3:14 PMYahoo SportsDonovan Mitchell Credits Alcohol For His 71-Point Game Against The Bulls
What they're saying
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When speaking about his 71-point outburst against the Bulls last season, Donovan Mitchell revealed how alcohol may have inadvertently fueled his performance.

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