The American basketball team Charlotte Hornets generously presented a young fan with a PS5 as a gift. However, when the cameras were off, the gaming console was taken away from him.
On December 16, 2024, the Charlotte Hornets played against the Philadelphia 76ers. During halftime, a small Christmas show took place, where gifts were given to children.
The host read out the wish list of a boy who wanted a PS5 for Christmas. He apparently tried particularly hard this year to get good grades in order to “earn” the gift. A video captures the show.
The PS5 is gradually being replaced by the PS5 Pro. Here you can watch the trailer for the newer version:
Handing over the PS5 seemingly just a show
What can be seen in the video? In the video on X, posted by user Adam Turner, the mascot of the basketball team can be seen handing the PS5 to the boy. So far, so good, but the description of the video suggests a different outcome of the situation.
Adam Turner states that the boy is the nephew of his best friend and that after the show, the boy’s PS5 was taken back without cameras. Thus, it was not an actual gift, but merely a kind of PR stunt.
Apparently, the boy’s uncle was aware that the PS5 was not to be kept. However, he did not communicate this to his nephew.
What are the consequences? After the post went viral, the outcry was naturally huge. Many were outraged by the tasteless action. The Charlotte Hornets issued an apology in a statement (via X):
During yesterday’s game, there was a halftime sketch on the court that missed its mark. The sketch was marked by poor decisions and inadequate communication. Simply put: we dropped the ball and apologize. We have contacted the family and are determined not only to make it right but to exceed expectations.
We will provide the fan with the PS5 that he was supposed to take home last night, along with a VIP experience at a future game. (…)
A PS5 makes a great gift if it is really given away. If you want to give a PS5 for Christmas, we have summarized the best deals during the Christmas season in the following article: Here’s how to get the PS5 cheaply for Christmas: These are the best deals on the Slim version and games
