Key Highlights:
- Chicago Bulls mascot Benny the Bull executed a lighthearted courtside prank aimed at LeBron James during player introductions.
- The prank featured a mobile cart advertising a free wine tasting setup directly targeted at the visiting Philadelphia 76ers roster.
- LeBron James and his Philadelphia teammates declined to participate, ignoring the mascot’s persistent gestures.
Benny the Bull Trolls LeBron James With Courtside Wine Gag
The Chicago Bulls’ iconic mascot, Benny the Bull, delivered another memorable courtside stunt on Sunday, November 8, 2026, when the Philadelphia 76ers arrived at the United Center. Known across the NBA for his high-energy antics and creative mockery of opposing stars, Benny turned his attention toward LeBron James just moments before tip-off.
As the starting lineup for the visiting Philadelphia 76ers was being officially introduced to the Chicago crowd, Benny the Bull rolled out a dedicated beverage cart right near the court. Positioned prominently beside the setup, the mascot displayed a sign advertising a complimentary wine tasting, directly referencing James’s well-known affinity for high-end vintages.
Philadelphia 76ers Stay Focused Ahead of Tip-Off
Throughout the introductions, Benny repeatedly gestured toward the cart and mimed serving drinks, actively attempting to entice LeBron James and his teammates to step away from their pre-game routine and sample the beverages. Despite the theatrical presentation and the crowd’s reaction, the visiting squad remained locked into their pre-game focus.
Neither LeBron James nor any of the other Philadelphia 76ers players accepted the mascot’s offer. The team disregarded the humorous distraction completely, maintaining their positions on the sideline as the final starting introductions wrapped up in Chicago.
Why This Matters
Mascot interactions and opposing player trolling have long been an entertaining staple of NBA game presentations, with Benny the Bull regularly leading the league in viral, personalized antics. By tailoring stunts to the well-documented off-court passions of legendary figures like LeBron James, arena entertainment teams add extra fan engagement and levity to high-profile regular-season matchups at the United Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Benny the Bull’s prank targeting LeBron James?
Benny the Bull set up a cart with a sign advertising a free wine tasting during the Philadelphia 76ers’ starting lineup introductions and repeatedly gestured to invite LeBron James and his teammates to have a drink.
Did LeBron James or the Philadelphia 76ers participate in the tasting?
No. None of the Philadelphia 76ers players accepted Benny the Bull’s offer or sampled any of the drinks from the cart.
When and where did the stunt take place?
The stunt occurred on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at the United Center in Chicago during the Philadelphia 76ers’ road visit to play the Chicago Bulls.



