During a recent Charlotte Hornets game, an on-court promotion intended to spread holiday cheer backfired, leading to public criticism and a subsequent apology from the team.
Incident Details:
During a timeout in the second quarter of the Hornets’ game against the Philadelphia 76ers, the team’s mascot, Hugo, dressed as Santa Claus, invited a 13-year-old fan named Jack onto the court. In a festive gesture, Hugo presented Jack with a PlayStation 5 (PS5) console, fulfilling the boy’s expressed wish. The crowd applauded as Jack received the gift, creating a heartwarming moment.
You guys want to see a cheap sports organization?
In this video my best friend&his nephew get called onto court for a special segment where they gift the kid a PS5 publicly… w/cameras off they TOOK IT AWAY and gave him a jersey.
? Take a bow @hornets… crushed the kid pic.twitter.com/mcj5hhsuM5
— USMNT_STAN (@StanUsmnt) December 17, 2024
However, once the cameras were off, team staff approached Jack and his family, requesting the return of the PS5. In exchange, they offered a team jersey. This unexpected turn left Jack confused and disappointed. His uncle, Alexei Phillips, who accompanied him to the game, recounted the incident, noting that even the cheerleaders and staff were shocked by the request.
Public Reaction and Apology:
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with many criticizing the Hornets for their actions. In response to the backlash, the Hornets issued a public apology, acknowledging poor decision-making and miscommunication during the promotion. They committed to rectifying the situation by providing Jack with the PS5 and offering a VIP experience at a future game. The team emphasized their dedication to enhancing fan experiences and expressed regret for the mishandled event.
Statement from #Hornets on last night’s promotion.
They’re giving the kid a PS5 and VIP experience for future game. @wcnc pic.twitter.com/rbGW4sAIKB
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) December 17, 2024
While the Hornets have taken steps to amend the situation, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine fan engagement and the potential repercussions of poorly executed promotions. Ensuring clear communication and thoughtful planning in fan interactions is crucial, especially during the holiday season when expectations for goodwill are heightened.