Mikal Bridges: Chipotle's Unofficial Mascot
For many basketball fans, the name Mikal Bridges is synonymous with consistent play and, perhaps more famously, a legendary commitment to Chipotle. In a 2023 GQ interview, Bridges revealed that he had been eating at the fast-casual restaurant almost daily for about ten years. This remarkable consistency, mirrored by his ability to play in every game early in his NBA career, turned him into a media sensation.
His love for the chain began during his high school days in Pennsylvania and continued throughout his time at Villanova University. His unwavering patronage eventually caught Chipotle's attention, leading them to reward his loyalty with a custom card that entitled him to a free meal every day. This recognition cemented his status as the brand's most dedicated unofficial fan.
Mikal Bridges' Famous Chipotle Order
So, what does an athlete who eats at the same place every day order? According to Bridges himself, his go-to is a simple yet satisfying combination that fuels his demanding lifestyle:
- White rice
- Double chicken
- No beans
- Medium and mild salsa
- Corn
- Lettuce
This exact meal became so well-known among fans that it's often referred to as the "Bridges bowl." His preference for specific salsas and the absence of beans or other additions has been a consistent topic of discussion, highlighting the highly customizable nature of Chipotle's menu that appeals to many athletes.
Official Chipotle Partnerships with NBA Players
While Mikal Bridges is a fan-favorite example of an athlete's personal preference, Chipotle also actively engages with other NBA players through official brand partnerships. These collaborations showcase a more direct and strategic relationship between the brand and the athletes. Josh Hart, a teammate of Bridges, and Anthony Edwards are notable examples.
The Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges Collaboration
In April 2025, Chipotle officially partnered with Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart to create a limited-edition line of custom “to-go” bags. Designed to celebrate the intersection of food and fashion, these collaborations highlight each player's personal style and preferences. Hart's bag, for example, featured a unique two-layered design with detachable compartments for personal belongings and his entree. The project not only leveraged the players' fan bases but also showcased the company's appreciation for their well-publicized love for the food.
Anthony Edwards on Team Chipotle
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards is another NBA player with an official relationship with the brand, having joined "Team Chipotle". As a Chipotle brand ambassador, Edwards appears alongside other prominent athletes like tennis player Taylor Fritz and skateboarder Jagger Eaton. These partnerships are part of Chipotle's broader strategy to connect with sports fans by showcasing how their food fuels athletes' success.
Comparison of NBA Player-Chipotle Relationships
This table illustrates the different ways NBA players can interact with the Chipotle brand, from personal fandom to official endorsements.
| Feature | Mikal Bridges (2023 Disclosure) | Josh Hart (2025 Collaboration) | Anthony Edwards (Team Chipotle) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relationship Type | Long-time superfan | Collaborative partner | Brand ambassador |
| Engagement | Revealed his daily eating habit in a GQ interview. | Co-created custom, limited-edition “to-go” bags. | Featured as a key member of the official "Team Chipotle". |
| Recognition | Received a custom card for free daily Chipotle. | Participated in a fashion-forward brand activation. | Promoted as a top-tier athlete endorsing the brand. |
| Publicity | Became a widely known, organic story of fan dedication. | Generated buzz through a limited-release, stylish product. | Included in a comprehensive, ongoing marketing campaign. |
Why Athletes Choose Chipotle
Chipotle's popularity among athletes goes beyond individual preferences and partnerships. For professionals with strict nutritional needs, the ability to customize meals to their exact specifications is a significant advantage. The chain offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, allowing athletes to control their intake while maintaining a healthy diet. Many players, including Bridges, appreciate the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of their meals. For athletes who are constantly on the road, having a reliable and healthy food option available in many cities is a major convenience. You can read more about athletes and their diets in this insightful article: [link to a reputable food/nutrition site, e.g., an article on ESPN or similar].
The Verdict: The NBA's Biggest Chipotle Fan
While multiple NBA players have a documented relationship with Chipotle, Mikal Bridges remains the undisputed champion of fandom. His decade-long, publicly declared habit and the subsequent attention it received set him apart from those with more formal, short-term collaborations. However, the involvement of players like Josh Hart and Anthony Edwards proves that Bridges isn't the only one benefiting from this synergy. Ultimately, Chipotle's ability to cater to both organic fan obsessions and official brand partnerships highlights its broad appeal within the professional basketball community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of which NBA player loves Chipotle most has a clear answer: Mikal Bridges, whose legendary daily devotion and free-meal card story is a testament to his love for the brand. However, it's also clear that Bridges is not alone in his admiration. Through various collaborations and ambassadorships, Chipotle has successfully positioned itself as a favorite among many in the NBA, using both grassroots fandom and official partnerships to strengthen its brand appeal within the sports world.
