The NBA playoffs are in full swing, and so are the anxiety-inducing ups and downs that can make watching a game feel a bit torturous, especially for fans who are desperate to see their team win an NBA Finals. Luckily, states like New York have legalized something that can help fans relax while making the highs of winning, well, higher; and that something is cannabis.
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In New York City, where the Knicks continue to make an exciting playoff run complete with 20-point comebacks, game-winning threes, and clutch overtime defensive efforts, weed and basketball are becoming closely intertwined. At Culture House, which is located in Herald Square just a few blocks away from Madison Square Garden, the flow of Knicks fans coming in to purchase products to enjoy before, during, and after each game is noticeable. Fans can even purchase weed from Carmelo Anthony.
If you’re a basketball fan looking for something that can help keep you sane during your team’s rollercoaster ride of a playoff push, whether it ends in crazy celebrations or heartbreak that makes you scared to check the banter on NBA Twitter, here are some ways to incorporate cannabis into your viewing experience.
Grab a Pre-Roll for Pre- and Post-Game
Pre-rolls are usually top sellers in the dispensary, especially on game days, due to their convenience and quick effects. Of course, if you’re attending a game or watch party in one of the arenas, you won’t be able to smoke during any of the four quarters, but pre-rolls do provide a great option for your pre- and post-game consumption.
At Culture House, we see a lot of basketball fans come in to buy themselves a J to smoke on their walk to the Garden or to hold onto for post-game celebrations (or commiseration). If you prefer flower, a pre-roll will get you in the right headspace fast and can be passed amongst your buddies while you tailgate, are on the go to the arena, or as you try to settle in after the rush of emotions that come with the final buzzer.
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Tip Things off With a Gummy
For those folks who are more into a gradual high or prefer to hold off on consuming until things get extra stressful, a low-dose gummy is a great option. If you’re headed to the arena to watch the game in person, it will be easier to bring in with you and can be discreetly eaten as you feel the intensity of the game increase, or to time the high to coincide with any post-win celebrations.
An edible can also heighten the overall experience of being at the game or with friends at a watch party while also stifling some of the anxiety that can come with watching your team in the playoffs. While the onset may be slower than smoking a J, the high from an edible is different and can make in-person experiences like sporting events much more enjoyable. They’re also a great alternative to smoking if you’re trying to spare your lungs for all the yelling you’ll be doing during the game.
Pack a Canna Bev for Your Watch Party
It’s no secret that playoff sports and social drinking go hand in hand, but that doesn’t mean cannabis can’t be incorporated into that. If you’re watching the game at home or headed to a playoff function that is BYOB, cannabis beverages offer a great alternative to alcohol while also giving you the high you need to enjoy the game and manage your stress. And the best part? If you find yourself drinking a lot (whether due to a thrilling win or soul-crushing defeat), you’ll still be hangover-free the next day.
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Cannabis beverages have consistently grown in popularity and are popular at Culture House. Brands like ayrloom have created beverages that have perfectly balanced doses and onsets that mimic social alcohol consumption and are perfect for sporting events like the NBA playoffs. If you feel like cannabis would be better for your spectating experience, but you’d prefer to have a drink in hand, these products are for you.
Whether your team is currently in the thick of the conference semifinals or you’re a casual neutral just taking in the chaos that is the NBA playoffs, weed can be a Godsend during this time. Happy hooping to everyone deeply invested or just joining along for the ride. And from the folks at Culture House: Go Knicks!
*This article was submitted by a guest contributor. The author is solely responsible for the content.