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Mike Tirico Hilariously Interviewed a 76ers Fan Who Wasn’t Happy With Refs Mid-Game

Mike Tirico interviewed a fan during the 76ers-Celtics game Tuesday
Mike Tirico interviewed a fan during the 76ers-Celtics game Tuesday | Screengrab via NBC

Mike Tirico is a pro’s pro.

The NBC broadcaster called the 76ers-Celtics game in Philadelphia Tuesday night and he showcased his hard-hitting journalism chops when he turned around from the broadcast booth to interview a fan that loudly complained about the officiating. The hilarious moment happened after Sixers guard Quentin Grimes was called for a foul at the start of the fourth quarter which sent Celtics guard Anfernee Simons to the line in a close game.

“That’s not a shooting foul, it’s on the floor,” the fan was overheard saying on the NBC broadcast as Tirico let out a laugh.

Reggie Miller was impressed with the fan’s knowledge as Tirico turned around to ask him his name and hometown. Michael from Ocean City, N.J., was the fan who made the impromptu appearance on the national broadcast in the funny moment.

“Michael from Ocean City right behind us, you heard him,” Tirico said. “You know, in the business you like to have the natural sounds so people feel like they’re at the game. In Philly, it’s always a little dangerous.”

Luckily this time was all in good fun and incited plenty of laughter from the broadcast booth. Michael from Ocean City got to go home happy as his 76ers pulled out a 102-100 win over the Celtics to advance to 7-4 on the year. Plus, he leaves with a great story for the water cooler tomorrow.


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Blake Silverman
BLAKE SILVERMAN

Blake Silverman is a writer at Sports Illustrated, primarily covering the NBA and WNBA. Before joining SI in November 2024 as a breaking/trending news writer, he covered the WNBA, NBA, G League and college basketball for numerous sites, including Winsidr, SB Nation and A10Talk. He’s an alum of both Michigan State and St. Bonaventure University, receiving a master’s degree from the Bonnies’ sports journalism program. Outside of work, he’s a husband, father, yogi and fairly mediocre tennis player who’s open to any tips on how to play defense in EA Sports College Football.

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