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Wizards’ April Fools’ Halftime Prank Tricks Fan Into Fake $10,000 Win

The stunt drew sharp criticism for humiliating a paying attendee.

Overview

  • The Washington Wizards, during Wednesday’s game against the 76ers, ran a blindfolded half-court contest for $10,000 and pretended an airball was a made shot as part of an April Fools’ bit.
  • The arena host hyped the attempt and mascots celebrated on the floor before a replay on the jumbotron showed the miss and revealed the ruse.
  • The team told the participant he would receive an autographed jersey and courtside seats for next season as a consolation.
  • No formal apology or corrective step has been widely reported since the prank.
  • Washington lost 153-131 to Philadelphia that night, dropping to 17-59 in a season that has fueled frustration with the franchise.