Basketball’s Most Legendary Pre-Game Snacking Traditions Throughout the Decades

It’s the middle of March Madness, and believe it or not, you have something in common with your favorite athletes: picking the best pre-game basketball snack to keep you fueled all game long.

Food has always been a big part of game-day prep. From turkey sandwiches to protein bars, pre-game fueling has evolved as much as the game itself. Let’s dig in!

The Evolution of Game-Day Fuel

Every elite athlete has a pre-game basketball routine. Warm-ups, good luck rituals, and, of course, their go-to food that powers them through all four quarters.

Today’s athletes carefully monitor their diets, tracking macros, carbs, healthy fats, and proteins. But legends of the past? They usually ate whatever made them feel good before hitting the court.

Game-Day Snacks Athletes Swear By

Steak and Potatoes

Michael Jordan—the GOAT himself—swore by a hearty basketball pre-game meal of steak and potatoes to give him lasting energy. Early in his career, Shaquille O’Neal fueled up with a turkey club and fries. But in 1999, after seeing MJ’s success, he made the switch to steak, too.

The PB&J

A tried-and-true favorite, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches have that perfect balance of protein, carbs, and sugar. Even LeBron James, known for his meticulous diet, loves a classic PB&J for a quick energy boost.

Candy

Think pro athletes steer clear of sugar? Not always. The legendary Kevin Garnett relied on sour gummy bears and candy for a little jolt before stepping onto the court.

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High-Performance Snacks

Fast forward to 2025, and game-day nutrition is a whole science. Every meal, snack, and drink is carefully chosen to support energy, recovery, and hydration. Many athletes now rely on snacks like almond butter packets, protein bars, electrolyte gummies, and hydration drinks to stay at the top of their game.

Looking for a courtside-worthy snack? Check out Rap Snacks for a winning bite on AND off the court!