Wizards Apologize After April Fools' Prank Backfires

NBA team's joke about relocating to new city draws fan outrage.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:19am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with sharp planes of navy, burgundy, and grey overlapping to create a deconstructed, abstract scene that conceptually represents the fan outrage over the Wizards' relocation prank.A cubist interpretation of the backlash the Wizards faced after their ill-conceived April Fools' relocation prank.Washington Today

The Washington Wizards' attempt at an April Fools' Day prank announcing the team was relocating to a new city sparked major backlash from fans, leading the NBA franchise to issue a swift apology.

Why it matters

The Wizards' prank highlighted the sensitive nature of sports franchise relocations, which can deeply impact loyal fan bases and local communities. Teams must tread carefully when attempting lighthearted jokes about such high-stakes issues.

The details

On April 1st, the Wizards posted a video on social media claiming the team was moving to a new city. The announcement was quickly revealed to be an April Fools' joke, but not before sparking significant outrage from fans who felt the prank was insensitive and disrespectful.

  • The Wizards posted the relocation video on April 1, 2026 - April Fools' Day.

The players

Washington Wizards

An NBA franchise based in Washington, D.C. that has played in the nation's capital since 1973.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We made a mistake with our April Fools' Day prank and we apologize to our fans. It was in poor taste and we will learn from this experience.”

— Tommy Sheppard, General Manager, Washington Wizards

The takeaway

The Wizards' failed April Fools' prank is a cautionary tale for sports teams - even lighthearted jokes about relocation can deeply upset and alienate loyal fans who have deep emotional connections to their home teams.