Fans Have Gross Theory About Why Gary Payton II Walked Off Court in the Middle of Game 4

The Warriors decided to shake things up in the prelude to Game 4 of their Western Conference semifinal series against the Lakers, inserting guard Gary Payton II into their starting lineup.

Payton II, however, made headlines by briefly leaving the court in the middle of a play. He returned and eventually finished with 15 points, three rebounds and two assists in Golden State’s 104–101 loss.

His exit invited speculation from fans that quickly coalesced into a disgusting theory: Payton II may have left the court to throw up.

Lakers blogger Michael Corvo suggested in zooming in on footage of Payton II leaving the game. He indicates that the evidence lies in Payton’s inflated cheeks immediately before he takes himself out—which seemed to imply he’d been holding in the vomit for an entire possession.

Payton II, for his part, played it cool when asked how he was feeling postgame.

"I'm good," he grinned. "I'm good."

NBA fans' reactions oscillated between revulsion and awe.

Some had fun with the situation.

Hall of Fame forward Paul Pierce caught strays.

Despite Payton II’s valiant efforts, the Warriors now stand one loss on Wednesday night away from an untimely playoff exit.