MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A concerning incident occurred at the arena on Monday evening before the game between the San Antonio Spurs and the Memphis Grizzlies when a fan collapsed courtside.
As both teams readied for the tip-off, the atmosphere shifted as medics rushed to the scene to assist the individual on the ground, leading to a delay as both teams retreated to their locker rooms.
Approximately seven minutes later, the fan was transported out of the venue on a stretcher.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the Grizzlies expressed their thoughts and prayers for the individual involved, also extending gratitude to the first responders and medical personnel who provided immediate assistance.
After the game, Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins limited his comments due to privacy concerns but shared that the organization was “hoping for the best” for the fan’s recovery.
After a delay of 45 minutes, the game eventually resumed.
Mike Miller, a sports agent sitting in proximity to the fan, raised the alarm upon realizing something was off.
“It was a terrible situation,” Miller recounted. “He seemed fine, conversing with others, but when the national anthem started, he remained seated.”
The Grizzlies emerged victorious in the match with a score of 128-109, but several players noted that the earlier incident had an impact on their focus as they returned to the court.
Rookie forward Stephon Castle acknowledged that his mindset was scattered, remarking, “My energy was somewhat affected. It was an unusual experience for me, especially in a basketball setting.”
Teammate GG Jackson shared that he faced a similar situation in his youth during a church service with his grandfather.
“My instinct was immediately to pray,” he said, mentioning that when the team reconvened in the locker room, they held a huddle for prayer for the individual.
“We had a meaningful prayer led by GG,” said Memphis guard Ja Morant. “Afterward, we returned to the court, continuing to hope and pray for a positive outcome.”
Spurs interim coach Mitch Johnson commented on the collective understanding of the teams regarding the situation, explaining that they returned to their locker rooms to grant first responders the necessary time and space to handle the medical emergency.
Johnson noted uncertainty about whether there was ever a serious discussion regarding canceling the game.
“At the end of the day, medical safety takes precedence,” he added. “We were essentially in a waiting pattern, anticipating further direction on the appropriate next steps.”
