Let’s face it, watching sport isn’t the same without a strong selection of food options to devour along the way. However, not every single dish pairs well with a basketball game. For example, you don’t want to have a food-related creation that requires sitting at the dinner table, or you’ll miss some of the action involving your favorite team. As such, easy-to-eat options are vital.
With the new NBA season on the horizon, fans everywhere are likely to host gatherings to watch the biggest occasions on the calendar. In order to ensure your guests return for the next big game, though, a collection of delicious dishes for them to devour with ease is a necessity. A warming stew can be demolished while they’re making their fantasy picks, numerous finger food options are perfect while they’re placing their NBA bets, and there are some tried and tested snacks among the NBA community that will suffice during the post-game celebrations.
So, if you’re keen to enjoy the NBA in the best way possible this campaign, then below we highlight some of the finest food to eat when watching the likes of the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Houston Rockets, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Boston Celtics in action. From easy-to-make starters to some more intricate dishes, there are five popular treats below.
Loaded Nachos
When you’re sinking beers and following the action on the court, it’s easier to combine the two when you aren’t constantly having to use a knife and fork to eat. As such, finger food like loaded nachos is perfect, with a huge tray of loaded nachos being straightforward to make as fans dip in and out during the game. Paired perfectly with an aforementioned refreshing beer, loaded nachos are a must.
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Meatballs
When the soccer’s on in Sweden, meatballs are a popular choice. Likewise, for many NBA fans around the world, these meaty balls of goodness are ideal for the big game. All you need to do is roll some high-quality mince into miniature balls, toss them into a pot or a pan, add your favorite bottle of sauce, and let them cook away. A creation even the most basic of cooks could master, meatballs are delightful. You could even go one step further and throw in some mashed potatoes to make them even more memorable.
Pretzels
Another great option to consider adding to your game day menu is pretzels. Whether you want fresh pretzels or pre-packaged options, they tend to combine beautifully with a mustard or queso dip. In order to impress your fellow basketball lovers, though, warm pretzels fresh out of the oven is probably the way to go here. You can really taste the difference.
Chicken Wings

Perfect for almost every occasion, chicken wings are more than suitable for an NBA game. In fact, for many passionate basketball fans, they’re a must-have on any game day. Whether you prefer garlic and herb or classic buffalo wings, there are numerous avenues you can go down here. Easy to prepare and even easier to cook, chicken wings are essential for any NBA clash.
Cheeseburger Sliders
Who doesn’t love a burger? Well, if you’re potentially surrounded by burger fans, then some cheeseburger sliders will go down a treat. Offering the taste sensation of a cheeseburger but in a party-friendly size, cooking some ground beef with minced onion and garlic is the way to go here. Add in some freshly prepared miniature buns, an array of your favorite sauces to choose from, and popular cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, and they’ll be destroyed in minutes.