In a somber turn of events, a spectator attending the Sacramento Kings’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday passed away during the quarterfinal matchup of the NBA In-Season Tournament. The Kings announced the unfortunate incident, revealing that paramedics were called to Golden 1 Center during the first quarter of the game.
According to the Kings, the emergency response was initiated after a guest suffered a medical emergency. Despite immediate and extensive efforts, including CPR administered by paramedics, the guest did not survive. The Kings organization expressed its deepest condolences to the fan’s family and loved ones in a statement to USA TODAY Sports.
The Sacramento Fire Department, responding to an “unresponsive” spectator described as a “30’s aged male,” confirmed that the individual was pronounced dead at the scene after 20 minutes of CPR.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the medical emergency did not cause any delays in the game. Post-match, Kings forward Keegan Murray conveyed that he and his teammates were unaware of the incident during the game. However, upon learning about it, Murray, along with teammates Malik Monk and De’Aaron Fox, extended their condolences to the fan’s family.
Malik Monk posted on Tuesday, “Heard the news about the fan tonight my condolences go out to the family,” to which De’Aaron Fox responded, “Prayers to their fam.” The entire NBA community is left in mourning as they reflect on the tragic loss during what was meant to be an exciting and competitive basketball event.
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