Wizards apologize after $10K April Fools' prank on fan, say he was 'in on the joke'

The Washington Wizards' dismal season hit a new low Thursday when the organization had to apologize for an April Fools' Day prank during their 22-point loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night that they said "missed the mark."

At halftime, the Wizards set up "G-Wiz's April Fools Frenzy" featuring their mascot, G-Wiz, a number of other NBA mascots and three fan contestants. Each fan was given a chance to make a blindfolded half-court shot for $10,000. But before they made their way onto the floor, the in-arena host instructed everyone else to pretend that the third contestant was successful. 

"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."

All three contestants missed, obviously, but everyone followed through on the plan after the third contestant's shot. Loud noises went off, the crowd cheered and the mascots mobbed the fan. But after the mascots handed the fan a check for $10,000, the in-arena host instructed him to watch a replay on the Jumbotron. When the truth was revealed, the check was stolen away by G-Wiz. 

"I'm not gonna lie sir, I really, really hate April Fools' Day," the in-arena host told the fan. "I'm so sorry, we're gonna hook you up with an autographed jersey, two courtside seats for next season."

The Wizards, who faced loud public backlash, insisted that everyone involved was in on the joke.

"We apologize for last night's April Fools' joke that left many wondering if we had misled a fan," the team said in a statement Thursday. "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."

Winning a few games would be the best way for the Wizards to provide a positive experience for their fans. The team is heading toward a third consecutive sub-20-win season, hasn't been to the playoffs since 2021 and hasn't won a playoff series since 2017. 

The organization certainly hopes its fortunes will change next season after trading for Anthony Davis and Trae Young earlier this season.