The Charlotte Hornets apologized after a social media user said a young boy was given a PlayStation 5 during a skit on the court, only for it to be taken away behind the scenes.
The skit starred the NBA team’s mascot, Hugo, dressed as Santa during a home game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Dec. 16, according to video posted on X. Hugo appeared to be reading children’s holiday wish lists and surprising them with gifts.
One of the boys was given a PS5, leading his jaw to drop before he headed off the court, according to the video, which has been viewed more than 4 million times. The X user wrote in the caption of the post that once the cameras were turned off, the team took the video game console away and gave him a jersey instead.
The Hornets issued an apology in a statement to TODAY.com on Dec. 18.
“During last night’s game there was an on-court skit that missed the mark. The skit included bad decision making and poor communication. Simply put, we turned the ball over and we apologize,” the Hornets said.
The team said it had reached out to the family and is “committed to not only making it right but to exceeding expectations.”
“We will be providing the fan with the PS5 that he should have taken home last night along with a VIP experience to a future game,” the Hornets said. “Our goal is and will remain to elevate the guest experience for every person that enters Spectrum Center, and to show our fans how much we appreciate their relentless support.”
