NBA Fan Injured During Shooting Challenge, Leaves Arena on Stretcher

An Atlanta Hawks fan's night took an unexpected turn during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday. The fan, participating in a tic-tac-toe shooting challenge during an intermission, suffered what appeared to be a knee injury after slipping while attempting a lay-up. He was seen clutching his left knee as his opponent continued the challenge on the opposite end of the court.

A video captured the aftermath, showing the injured fan being carried off the court on a stretcher. Shamea Morton, the event hostess at Atlanta's State Farm Arena, stepped in to halt the challenge, asking the other participant to pause and show some empathy. "Can you just wait? Can you just be kind and come over here with me and check on James," Morton said, adding, "We know you won, but OK."

The Hawks confirmed that the incident was no April Fools’ joke, but no immediate update on the fan's condition has been provided. The sight of someone being stretchered off after a lighthearted fan activity? Definitely not on anyone's bingo card for the night.

Meanwhile, the game itself saw the Trail Blazers secure a 127-113 victory, thanks to stellar performances from Shaedon Sharpe, who racked up 33 points and 10 rebounds, and Deni Avdija, who delivered a triple-double with 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists. On the Hawks' side, Trae Young shone with 29 points and 15 assists, supported by Dyson Daniels' 22 points and 10 rebounds.

Despite the loss, the Hawks remain in contention for the NBA play-in tournament with a record of 36-39. The Trail Blazers, now at 33-43, are still chasing a play-in spot, sitting 3.5 games behind the Sacramento Kings.

While the game provided plenty of on-court drama, it was the unfortunate injury during the fan challenge that left a lasting impression on the night. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery for the injured participant, who might now have the most memorable intermission story in NBA history.