"Of course MJ would do that": Fans buzz after Charlotte Hornets' "cheapest" act gets exposed

Social media erupted after news of an embarrassing incident involving the Charlotte Hornets during their 121-108 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers surfaced. During a game break, the Hornets’ mascot, Hugo the Hornet, dressed as Santa Claus, handed out gifts to children.

At halftime, one child was presented with a PlayStation 5, but off-camera, the console was taken back and replaced with a team jersey.

When this act was exposed on X (formerly Twitter), fans were quick to criticize the franchise, sharing unfiltered reactions and even name-dropping former team owner Michael Jordan in their frustration.

"Of course MJ would do that smh the real goat bron would never," a fan commented.

"Hornets continue to be the cheapest organization in pro sports," another fan wrote.

"What was their excuse for the bait and switch in the first place? Is Jordan still their majority owner?" commented a user.

"Yall see my profile name I am admittedly way too forgiving of my franchise this is pissing me off and makes me extremely disappointed," a Hornets fan wrote.

"Mj standing by his motto," a user commented.

"It’s crazy the Hornet have actually gotten worse since MJ selling the team," said a fan.

Charlotte Hornets issue apology

After the incident went viral on social media, the Charlotte Hornets issued a public apology, acknowledging that their on-court skit had gone awry. The franchise admitted their mistake and assured fans they would make it right by providing the young fan with a special experience in the future.

"During last night's game there was an on-court skit that missed the mark," the organization said. "The skit included bad decision-making and poor communication. Simply put, we turned the ball over and we apologize.

"We have reached out to the family and are committed to not only making it right but to exceeding expectations."

Here's the full statement from the Charlotte Hornets:

On the court, the Charlotte Hornets have struggled this season, sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference standings with a 7-19 record. LaMelo Ball and Co. will look to bounce back when they take on the Washington Wizards on Thursday.