NBA Players Cite Alcohol Spills as Major Issue

One player says excessive alcohol sales at games are causing disruptions on the court.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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During NBA All-Star Weekend, players were polled on the biggest issues facing the league today. While concerns like player injuries and tanking were raised, one player, Washington Wizards guard Bub Carrington, cited excessive alcohol sales and spills on the court as a major problem that needs to be addressed.

Why it matters

Alcohol consumption and spills at sporting events can pose safety risks, disrupt gameplay, and reflect poorly on the league's image. The NBA will need to balance fan experience with responsible alcohol policies to mitigate these issues.

The details

Carrington said, 'They might be selling too much alcohol at the games. They keep on spilling it on the court. You have to stop the game to wipe it up.' The Athletic noted that Carrington's response was a favorite among the player poll. Other players cited injuries and the perception that players don't want to play due to health concerns as major problems facing the NBA.

  • The poll was conducted during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend.

The players

Bub Carrington

A guard for the Washington Wizards who participated in the Rising Stars game as an injury replacement.

Jaylon Tyson

A player for the Cleveland Cavaliers who commented on the perception that players don't want to play due to injuries.

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What they’re saying

“They might be selling too much alcohol at the games. They keep on spilling it on the court. You have to stop the game to wipe it up.”

— Bub Carrington, Washington Wizards Guard (The Athletic)

“I think the biggest problem right now is the perception that guys don't want to play. Guys are working their tail off every day to be able to get on the court, but unfortunately, our bodies aren't robots, so we can't just go out there and play. We've got to be healthy to be out there to go play.”

— Jaylon Tyson, Cleveland Cavaliers Player (The Athletic)

What’s next

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said that 'Every possible remedy' is on the table to stop tanking, and the league will also discuss expansion next month, though relocating a team is not being considered.

The takeaway

The NBA will need to carefully balance fan experience and alcohol policies to address player concerns about excessive alcohol sales and spills disrupting gameplay. Addressing these issues could help improve the league's image and player safety.