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Understanding Surge Pricing: How to Spot Price Hikes Like the Arkansas Man’s Vegas Beer Experience
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Scott Rutledge from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, recently experienced a shocking price hike while purchasing a beer on the Las Vegas Strip. He noticed that the beer cost him “$2 or $3 more” during Saturday night compared to earlier in the day. This fluctuation reflects a growing trend known as dynamic pricing, a strategy increasingly seen in various sectors, including hospitality and travel.
Such price changes sparked annoyance among visitors. Scott expressed frustration primarily over the lack of transparency, labeling it “a bit dishonest.” Following this experience, he and his wife decided to buy their beverages from a nearby CVS instead.
Others echoed similar sentiments. Julie Brenner from Miami found discrepancies in water bottle prices at the Paris Casino, noting that it was cheaper on their second day there—roughly $0.15 less in the morning. Like Scott, she pointed out the absence of posted prices made it unclear what to expect.
According to Mark Tremblay, an assistant professor of economics at UNLV, surge pricing is becoming standard in today’s digital economy. The situation in Las Vegas has worsened as the city faces significant financial pressures, especially in a post-pandemic world, leading to soaring costs across the board.
While Las Vegas had successfully positioned itself as a value destination in the 1990s, recent years have seen a marked rise in prices, resulting in an 11% decline in visitors from 2024 to 2025. David Danzis, a gaming reporter, noted that operators are now trying to devise sustainable strategies due to declining visitor numbers and gaming revenues, resulting in value diminishing for guests.
To combat rising costs, some local casinos are implementing new promotions and incentives to attract tourists. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has initiated a campaign named “Locals Unlocked,” offering deals at major resorts specifically for residents.
Travelers looking to save money during their visits can take several practical steps, such as:
- Purchasing snacks and drinks from convenience stores away from the Strip.
- Using ride-sharing app driver modes to find lower rates.
- Traveling during the off-season for better hotel rates.
- Dining at budget-friendly restaurants away from the main attractions.
The shift to dynamic pricing in places like Las Vegas highlights a broader trend affecting consumer experiences, pushing some to reconsider their travel plans or seek alternatives.
The Wit and Wisdom of Oasis: Highlights from the New Jersey Reunion Show, Featuring Liam Gallagher’s Unforgettable Monologues and Beer Line Insights
Night two of Oasis’ reunion at MetLife Stadium attracted a lively crowd of young fans, many echoing the band’s significant popularity back in the U.K. The atmosphere was vibrant, with attendees eager to connect and enjoy the concert experience. Alongside the excitement for the music, humorous exchanges filled the air, showcasing the light-hearted spirit of the celebration.
As fans lined up for drinks and band merchandise, witty remarks peppered the conversations. One fan humorously declared their preference for their bucket hat over a partner, saying, “She said it was her or the bucket hat… so I chose the bucket hat!” This sentiment was echoed by another fan who praised an ingenious beverage choice: “It’s so smart, innit? To have a can filled with a Jameson Ginger and Lime… it’s all you need. Americans do bring good things to the world.”
The crowd’s excitement was palpable as attendees shared dany moments in the bathroom lines, with one friend confessing to another, “Don’t tell Jack that I only know ‘Wonderwall.’” Meanwhile, two friends waiting in a long restroom line exchanged snarky remarks about the tall guy who cut in, illustrating the camaraderie and playful banter among strangers.
When Liam Gallagher took the stage, his spirited monologue captivated the audience. He expressed their enthusiasm for performing in America while dismissing naysayers, stating, “Don’t listen to all the other knobheads going, ‘We don’t like you’… We stand here in front of you beautiful people tonight in this beautiful stadium, there has been no fucking game playing.”
As the night drew to a close, fans exiting the stadium eagerly recounted their vocal tribulations, sharing the unforgettable evening with each other. Despite the mayhem of the night, the humor and connection among the fans highlighted the joyous occasion of Oasis’ much-anticipated reunion show.
America’s Top Beer Maker Lowers Fiscal Outlook Amid Trump’s Immigration Policy Impact on Demand
Constellation Brands, the owner of Modelo and Corona, has seen its stock drop 7% following a downward revision of its fiscal outlook. In a statement, the company noted that sales declines in high-end beer, particularly among Hispanic consumers, were sharper than the overall market downturn. This is the second indication that the demand has been adversely affected by President Trump’s immigration policies, which have particularly impacted the Hispanic demographic that constitutes about half of Constellation’s business, according to CEO Bill Newlands.
Modelo Especial has recently surpassed Bud Light as the bestselling beer in the U.S., marking a significant shift in consumer preferences. However, Constellation now anticipates a decline in net beer sales of 2% to 4% for the fiscal year 2026, contrasting with earlier expectations of flat to 3% growth. Newlands highlighted the difficulties in the macroeconomic environment, stating that fewer trips are being made to purchase beer, and when purchases do occur, consumers are spending less.
Specifically, Hispanic consumers are reportedly enjoying fewer occasions to consume beer, as they are going out to eat less frequently and hosting fewer social gatherings at home. A consultant in the industry mentioned how current socio-political climates, including ICE raids and deportation fears, may deter consumers from leaving their homes, which translates to fewer opportunities for beer consumption.
The general beer market is under significant strain, with only 54% of drinking-age Americans consuming alcohol, a historic low. Those who do drink are doing so less frequently. This trend is forcing many companies within the industry to adapt to changing consumer behaviors, and Constellation has experienced a decline in beer shipment volumes by 3.3%, with competitors like Molson Coors facing even steeper drops.
In addition to these challenges, Constellation Brands has revised its operating income expectations downwards, anticipating a decline of 7% to 9% rather than the previously forecasted growth. Factors such as tariffs and lower volumes are cited as contributing elements to this adjustment.
For more details, visit the original article on Yahoo Finance.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille: Celebrating Customer Wins and Memorable Experiences
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille celebrated National Rum Day on August 16, achieving a significant milestone by selling 52 Doc’s Old Fashioned Mojitos and nine rum flights, the highest among its four locations. To enhance the event, customers ordering these drinks received raffle tickets for prizes, including rum barrel infusers and flight boards.
Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, expressed enthusiasm over the success of National Rum Day, noting it as a perfect occasion to showcase their unique rum selections. He aimed to introduce patrons to the idea that premium rums can be savored like fine wines—a concept he hoped would resonate with new rum enthusiasts.
The Fort Myers Beach location’s success was closely followed by the St. Petersburg Pier location, which sold 49 mojitos and eight rum flights. The Doc’s Old Fashioned Mojito is made with premium Flor de Cana aged rum, muddled lime, mint, orange, bitters, simple syrup, and soda.
As part of the celebration, a partnership with Flor de Cana Rum and Republic National Distributing Company led to the creation of custom tabletop rum infusers. These small barrels allow users to age rum at home for an enhanced, personalized tasting experience. Winners at the event included Michael Mendoza from the Fort Myers Beach location and Brad Sitton from Sanibel.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is renowned for its Caribbean Rim-inspired cuisine and offers an extensive range of rum-based cocktails, catering to both casual diners and rum aficionados alike. The restaurant operates daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Discover the Hidden Gem: Costco’s Sancerre – A Rare French Wine Bargain Under $20!
Sipping a glass of refreshing white wine is a delightful way to unwind after a long day. However, finding a quality wine that strikes the right balance between taste and affordability can be challenging, especially when you want something enjoyable without breaking the bank. One grocery chain has caught the attention of white wine enthusiasts due to its appealing offerings.
Sarah Zeiler, a North Carolina-based content creator, is not only known for her lifestyle vlogs but also for her wine reviews on social media. As a Costco member, she passionately searches for great white wines that won’t empty her wallet. Recently, she excitedly shared her find of Ronsard La Pleiade Sancerre, a French wine, during one of her Costco hauls.
The discovery of this "amazing" Sancerre, typically priced higher at other retailers, was a thrill for Zeiler, especially since it was available for just under $15 at Costco. While some locations may list it around $20 or $18 online, this bottle usually retails for at least $29 elsewhere, making it a fantastic deal. Comments from her followers echoed her sentiments, with one exclaiming that it’s hard to find Sancerre for less than $30!
Sancerre refers to an esteemed wine region in France’s Loire Valley, recognized for its mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc wines. The only white grape allowed in this appellation, Sauvignon Blanc, typically commands higher prices due to its limited supply and high demand. The Sancerre from Domaine de Ronsard flaunts a crisp, citrusy profile, showcasing grapefruit notes and elegant floral aromas.
Zeiler was immediately taken by the wine’s flavor, declaring it "so good" and praising its dry, light profile and vibrant fruit notes. This wine not only pairs beautifully with food but also stands out for its invigorating acidity, making it a prime choice for those seeking a bright, energetic taste.
Impressed by Costco’s efforts to offer more approachable French wines, Zeiler voiced her optimism that the retailer is listening to customers who crave quality at a reasonable price. This discovery has many hoping to fill their carts with this delightful Sancerre during their next Costco visit.
For more information about this Sancerre and other Costco wine selections, check out the original article on Food & Wine.
Shaken or Stirred: The 13 Essential Vodka Cocktails Every Home Bartender Must Master
For the past five years, the world of cocktails has been explored in depth, guided by bartender Jason O’Bryan, now the lead mixologist at Michelin three-star Addison. This journey has led to an extensive collection of cocktail recipes, especially vodka cocktails, a spirit often thought of as dull or flavorless. Despite this common perception, the right vodka cocktails can be outstanding and deserving of attention.
O’Bryan has curated a selection of 13 vodka cocktails that every home bartender should master. Here are some highlights from those recommendations:
1. Pornstar Martini
A frontrunner in popularity for eight consecutive years, this cocktail combines vodka, vanilla, and passion fruit. It captures a perfect balance of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 0.75 oz. lime juice
- 0.75 oz. vanilla syrup
- 0.75 oz. passion fruit liqueur or syrup
Instructions:Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with a lime wheel or passion fruit.
2. Kamikaze
A refreshing classic cocktail, reshaped through the use of fresh lime juice and high-quality triple sec.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. vodka
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 0.5 oz. triple sec
- 0.5 oz. simple syrup
Instructions:Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and garnish with lime.
3. Cosmopolitan
Made famous by Sex and the City, the Cosmopolitan can shine when made with balance and high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. Absolut Citron Vodka
- 0.75 oz. Cointreau
- 0.5 to 0.75 oz. lime juice
- 0.75 oz. cranberry juice
Instructions:Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a stemmed glass, and garnish with an orange peel.
4. Moscow Mule
A classic cocktail that propelled vodka’s popularity, combining vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. vodka
- 0.5 oz. lime juice
- 4-5 oz. ginger beer
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions:Serve over ice in a mug, stir gently, and garnish with lime.
5. French Martini
Though not a traditional martini, this vodka and pineapple juice cocktail has evolved into a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 0.5–0.75 oz. berry liqueur (like Chambord)
- 2 oz. pineapple juice
Instructions:Shake with ice, strain into a conical glass, and garnish with berries or pineapple.
6. Bloody Mary
A brunch essential believed to be best enjoyed during daylight hours.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 3-4 oz. tomato juice
- 0.5 to 1 tsp. horseradish
- Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Sriracha, black pepper, salt, celery salt
Instructions:Mix ingredients in the serving glass, roll between two glasses, and garnish with a celery stalk.
7. Appletini
Revived with fresh ingredients, this original sweet-and-sour cocktail can surprise you.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 0.75 oz. fresh granny smith apple juice
- 0.75 oz. lemon juice
- 0.75 oz. simple syrup
Instructions:Shake well with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with apple slices.
8. White Russian
A straightforward yet indulgent cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 1 oz. coffee liqueur
- 1 oz. half and half
Instructions:Mix ingredients in a glass with ice and enjoy.
9. Lemon Drop
A sweet-and-sour refreshing drink that can be elevated with the right balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 0.75 oz. lemon juice
- 0.5 oz. triple sec
- 0.5 oz. simple syrup
Instructions:Shake well with ice, strain into a sugared glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.
10. Long Island Iced Tea
Notorious for its strong profile, this version focuses on improving taste while reducing the alcohol content.
Ingredients:
- 0.5 oz. vodka
- 0.5 oz. gin
- 0.5 oz. silver rum
- 0.5 oz. tequila
- 0.5 oz. Cointreau
- 0.75 oz. lemon juice
- Top with Coca-Cola
Instructions:Shake all but the Coke with ice, strain into a glass, and top with Coca-Cola. Garnish with lemon.
11. Poet’s Dream
A twist on the vodka martini, incorporating Bénédictine for a unique complexity.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. vodka
- 0.75 oz. dry vermouth
- 0.25 oz. Bénédictine
Instructions:Stir with ice and strain into a cocktail glass, garnished with a lemon peel.
12. Harvey Wallbanger
A retro favorite that gets a modern twist with lemon juice for added brightness.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz. vodka
- 0.5 oz. Galliano
- 3 oz. orange juice
- 0.25 oz. lemon juice
Instructions:Shake with ice and strain into a glass with ice, garnished with an orange slice.
13. Amelia
An inventive cocktail aimed at those looking to elevate their flavors with vodka.
Ingredients:
- 1.75 oz. vodka
- 1 oz. elderflower liqueur
- 0.75 oz. lemon juice
- 0.75 oz. blackberry puree
Instructions:Shake well with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and garnish with mint.
These cocktails showcase the versatility of vodka and prove that this spirit can offer more than just a neutral base for drinks. With the right recipes, home bartenders can elevate their cocktail game significantly.
Nonalcoholic Beer and Mocktails: A Sober Solution for Some, but Not for Everyone
Several years into her sobriety, Logan Denzer turned to nonalcoholic beer and mocktails, seeking an enjoyable alternative while socializing in environments filled with drinkers. Living in Los Angeles, she found these beverages to be a great solution for those who feel out of place when others indulge in alcoholic drinks.
Declining alcohol consumption has gained traction, particularly among recovering alcoholics, individuals aiming to reduce their drinking, and a growing demographic of young adults opting to avoid alcohol entirely. This shift has spurred a booming industry focused on nonalcoholic options. Recent studies highlight the health benefits of reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, which is linked to various health risks like cancer and injuries.
Despite the positive aspects, experts caution that nonalcoholic beverages might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of addiction. The mimicry of alcohol’s appearance and flavor in these drinks could lead some individuals to experience cravings for real alcohol. Researcher Molly Bowdring from Stanford University emphasizes the individuality of each person’s experience with these beverages, suggesting that they are not universally beneficial.
Retail sales for nonalcoholic wines, beers, and spirits have surged significantly, exceeding $823 million last year. Many consumers adopt a "zebra striping" approach, alternating between alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks at social events to enhance their experience without full intoxication.
Health specialists like Dr. Joseph Lee, from the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, view the increase in mocktails on restaurant menus as a promising public health trend. However, they also caution that many mocktails can contain high sugar levels, which might negate some health benefits. For context, the American Heart Association suggests daily sugar limits well below what’s found in some sweetened mocktails.
While many transitioning drinkers have found success in using nonalcoholic drinks to moderate consumption, others, particularly those newly entering recovery, may struggle due to the alcohol-like cues present in these products. Denzer recounts her initial opposition to nonalcoholic options early in her sobriety due to fear of associating the flavor with past drinking habits. Yet, over time, she and her friends became more open to them.
Professionals agree that nonalcoholic drinks may work best for those further along in their recovery journey. They stress the importance of self-awareness, urging individuals to assess the impact these beverages may have on their health and recovery.
In conclusion, while nonalcoholic beers and mocktails offer a healthier social option for many, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Individuals are encouraged to monitor their own reactions and make informed choices based on their unique experiences and health risks.
28 Delicious Cocktails to Satisfy Your Rum Cravings
Rum, often regarded as a quintessential spirit, played a significant role in America’s history, notably influencing the drive for independence long before bourbon became the poster child of American spirits. Long before the Boston Tea Party in 1773, colonists protested British tax regulations on molasses, a key ingredient in rum production.
After the American Revolution, rum’s popularity diminished as whiskey took center stage, but it experienced a resurgence during the mid-20th century alongside the tiki bar culture. Today, rum is enjoying a revival once more, with Bacardi rum recognized as the most popular spirit in the U.S. as of late 2021. The pandemic fueled this resurgence, offering consumers a tropical escape through rum’s diverse flavor profiles.
With its varying degrees of sweetness, depth, and alcohol by volume (ABV), rum serves as the foundation for a wide range of cocktails. For anyone keen on exploring rum or deepening their appreciation, a selection of classic rum cocktails showcases the spirit’s versatility.
Classic Rum Cocktails:
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Daiquiri: A timeless favorite made with rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake these ingredients with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and garnish with a lime wheel.
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Piña Colada: This blend of white rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice can be made from fresh ingredients for a more authentic taste. Blend together and serve over ice, garnished with a pineapple wedge.
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Mai Tai: Created by Victor "Trader Vic" Bergeron in 1944, this signature cocktail features white rum, orange curaçao, freshly squeezed lime, and orgeat syrup, topped with dark rum.
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Zombie: Originating from tiki culture, this cocktail combines four types of rum with tropical fruit juices. It’s best known for its rich boozy kick.
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Blue Hawaii: A vibrant cocktail of white rum, vodka, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice, shaken or blended for a refreshing drink.
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Rum Punch: Traditionally made with a mix of rum, citrus, sugar, and spice, it’s a perfect party drink.
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Hot Buttered Rum: A cozy choice made by combining spiced rum with a hot mixture of butter, brown sugar, and spices.
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Bahama Mama: A tropical delight featuring rum, coffee liqueur, and pineapple juice, garnished with fruit for extra flair.
These cocktails not only highlight rum’s ability to adapt to various flavors but also embody its historical significance and ongoing revival in contemporary drinking culture. Whether it’s a daiquiri, a mai tai, or something more adventurous like a zombie, the options are plentiful and delicious.
Swing Into Summer: Enjoy ‘Honey Deuces’ in NYC Even If You Can’t Make It to the U.S. Open!
As summer transitions to fall, many New Yorkers are swapping out their Nutcrackers for the classic Honey Deuce cocktail, a staple of the U.S. Open. For those who can’t snag a ticket to the event, numerous bars throughout the city are offering their own renditions of this beloved drink.
The signature Honey Deuce — priced at $23 in special cups at the U.S. Open — has garnered a massive following. Last year alone, the tournament sold over 550,000 Honey Deuce cocktails, generating more than $12 million in sales. Recently, local bars have begun to craft their unique twists on this tennis-themed beverage.
Recipe for a ‘Homey Deuce’
If you’d rather create your own version at home, here’s a simple recipe courtesy of Grey Goose:
- 1 ¼ oz vodka
- 3 oz lemonade
- ½ oz raspberry liqueur
- 3 honeydew melon balls
Instructions: Fill a chilled highball glass with ice cubes. Add vodka, followed by lemonade and raspberry liqueur. Stir the mixture and garnish with a skewer of frozen honeydew melon balls, which resemble tennis balls.
Our calculations suggest that making a ‘Homey Deuce’ will cost approximately $3.50 to $4 per drink, a significant 83% less than ordering one at the stadium.
Grey Goose, the official sponsor, describes the cocktail as a blend of vodka, lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and honeydew melon balls. The term "deuce" in tennis signifies a tie at 40 points.
While mini versions may have been available at Grand Central Station, lucky patrons can still find similar concoctions at various bars citywide. For instance, Ray’s Bar in Greenpoint serves their take at $16. Meanwhile, a new bar named Nobody’s Perfect in Hell’s Kitchen markets the drink for $10 during happy hour—much cheaper than the stadium price.
Jack Howard, a US Open regular, has accumulated a collection of commemorative cups and expresses interest in trying the cocktail crafted by skilled mixologists instead of the hurried service at the venue.
In addition to local bars, several upscale venues are featuring their versions. Notably, Keith McNally’s Balthazar offers the cocktail until the tournament’s conclusion, while various hotel bars like Portrait Bar in The Fifth Avenue Hotel and La Marchande at The Wall Street Hotel have their own twists. La Marchande’s “Matchpoint” cocktail includes gooseberry, cantaloupe, lime, and Cocchi Americano.
For those who prefer a beach atmosphere, the Rockaway Hotel has its take on the Honey Deuce. For an extravagant experience, the Baccarat Hotel offers a “Crystal Courtside Dining” experience for $225 per person, inclusive of two cocktails.
Alternatively, LGBT-friendly spots like Singers in Brooklyn and Cubbyhole in the West Village offer their take on the cocktail, allowing patrons to enjoy the games while sipping their drinks.
For a full experience or to create your own version at home, see the recipe provided.
Mark Cuban Defends Michael Finley’s Bold Move: “If He Didn’t Do It, I Would Have Done It
Former Dallas Mavericks majority owner Mark Cuban has always been known for his strong connections with players and advocacy during controversies. However, he took the side of Mavericks VP of Basketball Operations Michael Finley regarding the recent incident involving Luka Doncic’s beer after Game 5 of the 2024 Western Conference finals.
In a widely circulated video, Doncic was seen holding a beer in the tunnel while celebrating with his father after the Mavs secured the Western Conference title. Finley intervened, taking the beer from Luka’s hand, which left the young star visibly surprised.
This moment drew considerable attention, especially after Doncic was subsequently traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Cuban, during an appearance on "The Arena" with Gilbert Arenas, defended Finley’s actions, stating that it was more about presentation than any concerns about Doncic’s drinking habits. He explained, "It wasn’t because he didn’t want him to drink it… it’s not just cool when a player’s doing an interview with a beer." Cuban expressed that he would have acted similarly if it had come down to it.
The narrative surrounding Finley’s actions has intermingled with allegations about the Mavericks’ concerns regarding Doncic’s off-court behavior, suggesting they were wary of his lifestyle choices, including drinking and smoking. After the trade, rumors surfaced that the Mavs believed these habits could jeopardize Doncic’s career longevity. In response to the criticisms, Doncic committed an entire summer to transforming his physical condition, eventually showcasing his impressive transformation on the cover of Men’s Magazine.
Cuban clarified that the motivation behind Finley’s intervention was not about Doncic’s health but rather about maintaining professionalism in front of the media. He emphasized that having a beer during an interview was not appropriate, insisting, “If it was wrong, I’d be like ‘Get him another one.’”
Conversely, former NBA player Marcus Morris voiced a dissenting opinion, suggesting that if he were in Doncic’s position, he would feel disrespected. Morris reasoned that after winning a significant game, players should be free to celebrate without fear of someone snatching their drink, stating, "We just won, we celebrating. I have a beer. There’s cameras, and you kind of take that away from me…"
While Doncic did not make any public comments about the incident, it appears he did not view it as significant as the media portrayed, likely understanding the rationale behind Finley’s actions.
For further details, you can explore more on the incident and reactions here.









