Wizards apologize for April Fools’ prank that ‘missed the mark’

The Washington Wizards apologized Thursday for an April Fools’ joke that led to condemnation on social media.

The prank during Wednesday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers featured a blindfolded fan who tried a half-court shot for a chance to win $10,000. He missed, but the mascots on the court pretended he drained it, handing him an oversized check. The mascot then took the check away and offered an autographed jersey and courtside tickets.

The Wizards played an April Fools prank on this guy by making him think he hit a blindfolded shot & won $10k

Diabolical pic.twitter.com/Ej4LZKrw68

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 2, 2026

Critics on social media called the prank “rough,” “brutal” and “mean.”

The reaction was intense enough to draw the apology from the Wizards, who said the skit was planned and no fans were psychologically harmed.

“We apologize for last night’s April Fools’ joke that left many wondering if we had misled a fan. The skit involving our mascot and other members of our performance team was scripted and intended to celebrate the day,” the team said. “All participants were in on the joke, but we missed the mark.”

Statement on last night’s April Fool’s joke. pic.twitter.com/Co3GPjrOhl

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) April 2, 2026

The apology elicited only more disapproval online.

“Don’t apologize! Not your fault lots of people can’t take a joke and have gone soft,” one NBA fan, Danny Barrera, wrote on X.

“Your record is a more offensive joke than last night’s events,” another X user wrote.

The Wizards (17-59) have three home games remaining in the season, including “Fan Appreciation Night” on April 10.

“Our fans are our priority,” the team said in a statement. “We continue to be committed to providing a positive experience to all who attend our games.”