On Wednesday night, Oklahoma City Thunder fan Eli Walch stepped up to the half-court line and delivered a shot that he’ll remember for years the rest of his life. With the crowd holding its breath, Walch swished the ball through the net, winning a cool $20,000 in the process.
The MidFirst Bank Half-Court Shot contest has become a beloved tradition during Thunder games. Fans get one chance to make the impossible shot from half-court, and the stakes are high. For Walch, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
As the ball sailed through the air, the arena erupted in cheers and applause. Walch’s shot was nothing short of electric, and the crowd knew it. The Thunder faithful watched in awe as the ball found its mark, securing a hefty payday for the lucky fan.
Walch, an Oklahoma City resident, had big plans for his winnings. He announced that he would use the money for his upcoming wedding. It’s a story that combines sports, luck, and love—a perfect trifecta.
Back-to-back bank shots: made
Tonight’s half-court shot winner Eli Walch of OKC takes home $20,000 thanks to @MidFirst! He says he’ll use the money for his wedding.
Congratulations, Eli! pic.twitter.com/st9bBFZqpF
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) April 25, 2024
What makes Walch’s shot even more remarkable is that it was the second time a Thunder fan hit the half-court shot during the playoffs. In Game 1, Jaylen O’Conner achieved the same feat and also walked away with $20,000. The Thunder faithful are proving that lightning can strike twice—right from half-court.
In addition to the thrilling half-court heroics, the Thunder dominated Game 2 against the New Orleans Pelicans. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored a game-high 33 points, OKC rolled to a 124-92 victory. The series now stands at 2-0 in favor of the Thunder.
