Boban's Chicken Trick: NBA Star Delights Fans with Deliberate Misses
In a heartwarming display of fan appreciation, Houston Rockets center Boban Marjanovic delighted Los Angeles Clippers supporters by deliberately missing two free throws in the season finale, ensuring they would receive free chicken as part of a promotional giveaway.
As the Rockets cruised to a 116-105 victory over the Clippers, securing a .500 record for the season, Marjanovic stepped to the foul line with his team comfortably ahead 105-97. Recognizing the opportunity to treat his former fans, the 7-foot-4 Serbian giant clanked his first free throw attempt off the iron, eliciting a roar of anticipation from the Clippers faithful.
Marjanovic, who had spent two seasons with the Clippers earlier in his career, clearly understood the situation. Turning to the crowd, he pointed at himself, acknowledging his intentions before bricking the second free throw, triggering a frenzy of cheers and applause throughout the arena.
As the broadcaster’s jubilant exclamation rang out – “Ah! He gave them chicken! He’s a man of the people! He gave out free chicken!” – Marjanovic basked in the adulation, pointing skyward in a playful celebration of his good deed.
The act of kindness perfectly encapsulated the gentle giant’s endearing personality, a stark contrast to his imposing stature on the court. Throughout his journeyman career, Marjanovic has won over fans with his affable nature and willingness to engage with supporters, traits that have made him a beloved figure in every city he has played.
“Boban is one of the nicest guys in the league,” remarked Rockets head coach Stephen Silas after the game. “He has a huge heart, and he genuinely cares about the fans. This was just him being Boban – spreading joy and making people smile.”
While the Rockets’ season ultimately fell short of playoff contention, Marjanovic’s gesture provided a final, memorable highlight, reminding everyone that basketball, at its core, is a game meant to entertain and bring happiness to its followers.
For the Clippers, now focused on their first-round playoff matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, the free chicken may have been a welcome distraction from the intense preparations ahead. But Marjanovic’s act of goodwill will likely be remembered long after the postseason has concluded, a testament to the power of simple acts of kindness in the sports world.
In a league often defined by fierce rivalries and high-stakes competition, Boban Marjanovic’s deliberate misses served as a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the greatest victories are the ones that bring smiles to the faces of fans – even if they come at the expense of a few errant shots.