The Washington Wizards keep finding new ways to embarrass themselves this season.
As if a 17-59 record wasn't bad enough, the Wizards have created quite the controversy this week by playing an April Fools' Day prank on a fan. During halftime of Wednesday night's game, the Wizards hosted a "G-Wiz's April Fools Frenzy" where three fan contestants attempted a half-court shot for $10,000 while blindfolded.
Before the contestants even stepped on the hardwood, the halftime host for the Wizards told fans to pretend the final contestant made the shot even if they missed it by a wide margin.
"It wouldn't be G-Wiz's April Fools Frenzy without playing a little prank. Not to say that they won't make it, but I'm guessing the first two may miss," the host said. "The last contestant, we're gonna pretend that the ball went in the basket. So as soon as it hits the ground, go crazy wild like they just won $10,000."
Unfortunately for the final contestant, Washington's crowd tricked him into believing he made a $10,000 shot.
This prank from the Wizards didn't sit well with NBA fans. They found it to be incredibly cruel.
© Geoff Burke-Imagn Images.
"To do this to a fan that chose to come see a 17-win team is unhinged," former ESPN anchor Jemele Hill said.
"This is so on-brand for the Wizards season," Andrew Brandt commented. "Finding new ways to offend their (few) fans.."
"This dude worked his 9-5, threw on his favorite red sweater, willingly bought tickets to see the 17-58 Wizards, and THIS is how you repay him? You just turned this man into the Joker," one fan wrote on social media.
"This isn’t funny," another person declared. "It’s cruel."
Wizards clear the air.
On Thursday afternoon, the Wizards issued an apology for this halftime show. They said all the participants involved in this skit were in on the joke.
"We apologize for last night's April Fools' joke that left many wondering if we had misled a fan," the Wizards said. "The skit involving our mascot and other members of our performance team was scripted and intended to celebrate the day. All participants were in on the joke, but we missed the mark. Our fans are our priority, and we continue to be committed to providing a positive experience to all who attend our games."
We'll see if this apology from the Wizards silences most of the criticism online. The Wizards will return to action this Saturday to take on the Miami Heat.
