Several NBA stars have adopted cupping therapy as part of their recovery and wellness routines. Cupping, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which is believed to promote blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and speed up recovery from injuries.

NBA Players Who Use Cupping Therapy

1. LeBron James
   LeBron James, one of the most famous basketball players in the world, has been seen with the telltale circular marks left by cupping therapy. He uses cupping to help his body recover after games and intense workouts, reducing muscle soreness and preventing injuries.

2. Stephen Curry
   The Golden State Warriors’ star has also turned to cupping therapy as part of his health regimen. Curry uses cupping to manage the physical toll of a long NBA season, helping him stay in top form and avoid fatigue.

3. Kobe Bryant
   The late Kobe Bryant was known for his dedication to maintaining his physical health. He incorporated various recovery techniques, including cupping therapy, to extend his career and keep performing at an elite level. Bryant was a strong advocate of using cupping for muscle relaxation and pain relief.

4. Michael Phelps
   Although not an NBA player, the famous Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps also popularized cupping during the 2016 Rio Olympics, which influenced many athletes, including NBA players, to explore this therapy.

The Role of Cupping in the NBA

Cupping has become more common among NBA players as they seek alternative methods to enhance recovery and maintain their physical condition. The demands of a long and grueling season require players to be in peak physical condition, and therapies like cupping provide an additional tool for managing their health.

By adopting cupping therapy, these NBA stars highlight the increasing acceptance and integration of traditional healing practices into modern sports science. Their use of cupping has helped bring attention to this ancient technique, showing how it can be beneficial in maintaining performance and longevity in professional sports.