Steven Adams Predicts GTA 6 Will Hurt League Performance
News
November 2, 2026

Steven Adams Predicts GTA 6 Will Hurt League Performance

Houston Rockets center Steven Adams told media that GTA 6's November release will cause a league-wide performance drop for athletes and coaches in multiple sports. He expects the effect to last through the month before improving in December once players finish the game. The remarks underscore the scale of anticipation surrounding Rockstar's title.

Adams Details Expected November Slump

Adams said fans should prepare for lower output in November across the NBA and NFL, with both players and coaching staffs affected by time spent on the game.

“Look at the NFL, look at all the leagues, and watch them plummet, mate. Just for the month of November, performance is gonna go down; it should come back up.”

— Steven Adams

He added that most athletes will complete the game and return to form by December.

Comparison to Past Gaming Distractions

Steven Adams Predicts GTA 6 Will Hurt League Performance

The comments extend an existing joke about NFL quarterback Kyler Murray's play declining around new Call of Duty releases, now applied more broadly to professional athletes facing GTA 6.

While professionals are expected to prioritize their careers, Adams noted that some may sacrifice normal rest levels during the initial launch period.

Separate Miami Heat Arena Promotion

Construction finished on a Vice City-themed sign atop the Miami Heat arena in Florida, funded by Rockstar at a reported cost of $975,000. The installation is scheduled to remain through the end of the year or the team's home season, though any wider NBA marketing partnership remains unclear.