While the spotlight during NBA games usually remains on the players on the court, sometimes off-court incidents steal the show. Such was the case during Monday night’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Detroit Pistons at Crypto.com Arena.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, a peculiar and persistent buzzing noise disrupted the atmosphere in the arena. The noise reportedly continued for several minutes in the third quarter, creating an unusual distraction for players, fans, and broadcasters as well.
McMenamin, who reported the incident live, did not specify the exact time the noise began. But he confirmed it was an ongoing issue throughout the latter part of the quarter.
There is some arena malfunction causing a strange persistent buzzing noise here at https://t.co/RbGGF9YhdO Arena. It hasn’t stopped for the last few minutes of the 3rd Q. pic.twitter.com/tVk1E0mTmk
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 24, 2024
For a game that should have been remembered for its on-court action, the unexpected arena malfunction became an unexpected talking point. Fans watching the game from home were initially confused, believing the buzzing to be a problem with their televisions.
I noticed that shit on my tv. I thought the edibles were taking over for a sec
— jg (@jgo_mez) December 24, 2024
I thought it was just me lol
— I.M Clan (@IMClan6) December 24, 2024
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i was wondering wtf is that noise?!?! had me muting my tv & all 😒
— nick (@saynick1k_) December 24, 2024
I was wondering what that was
— Jay H 🇺🇸🇸🇻 (@JayHrndz2) December 24, 2024
Thanks Dave I wouldn’t have known through the tv
— Wuru (@NOTeyevin) December 24, 2024
It wasn’t until McMenamin’s report that many realized the issue originated from the arena itself. Social media quickly buzzed with reactions as fans expressed frustration with the sound pollution disrupting the game’s flow.
Fun
— Scott (@Chemainiac) December 24, 2024
— Rob C:\Segal (@robcsegal) December 24, 2024
I can hear it on the broadcast too. Feel like I’m losing my mind
— Ewok S. (@ewoksilva) December 24, 2024
Detroit Pistons Edge Out The Los Angeles Lakers In Thrilling Victory
The Detroit Pistons delivered a nail-biting win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night, defeating them 117-114 at Crypto.com Arena. Despite strong performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers fell short in the final moments, after back-to-back wins against the Sacramento Kings.
LeBron James led the Lakers with a triple-double, recording 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists in 35 minutes. Anthony Davis added 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Max Christie stepped up with 17 points. However, the Lakers struggled to maintain momentum against the Pistons’ balanced attack.
For Detroit, Malik Beasley was the standout player, coming off the bench to score 21 points. Cade Cunningham sealed the offense with 20 points and 10 assists, while Jaden Ivey chipped in 18 points. The Pistons relied on their depth, with Simone Fontecchio contributing 13 points and Tim Hardaway Jr. adding 15.