A $10,000 Shot That Almost Was: The Story of Noam Lee and His Basketball Contest

Basketball games hold a certain allure—filled with drama, suspense, and unforgettable moments. But when it’s halftime, excitement often shifts from the court to elaborate games and contests featuring fans, where spectacular feats can lead to life-changing winnings. Recently, a remarkable event unfolded during a UMass women’s basketball game that captivated fans and sparked discussions about rules and fairness.

A Shooting Clinic with High Stakes

In an electrifying halftime contest, Noam Lee, son of renowned poker pro Bernard Lee, found himself in the spotlight with a chance to win $10,000. The challenge seemed straightforward yet daunting: within 30 seconds, he had to make a layup, a free throw, a three-pointer, and an elusive half-court shot. As the crowd filled the Mullins Center in Amherst, Massachusetts, excitement surged. When Noam effortlessly sank all four shots with time to spare, the sparse audience erupted in cheers, celebrating what they believed was a stunning victory.

The moment was captured on social media by Josh Schreiber, a friend of Noam’s, who shared the video on X (formerly Twitter), and the response was immediate. Viewers marveled at the young athlete’s skill and poise under pressure, fueling excitement about what was supposed to be his $10,000 payday.

The Disheartening Twist: Not So Fast, My Friend

However, what seemed like a fairytale moment quickly took a disappointing turn. Just as Noam was preparing to bask in the glory of his performance, he was informed with disheartening news during the third quarter of the game. The prize amount hinged not solely on making the shots but also on adhering to strict contest rules enforced by Odds On Promotions, the company running the event.

In a twist reminiscent of the age-old adage "it’s always the little things," it was revealed that one of Noam’s feet had crossed the three-point line during the shooting contest, leading to the annulment of his fantastic feat. In his own words, Noam expressed disappointment, revealing that he received an email stating the ruling from the UMass athletics representative.

“The promotion company got back to them and said my foot was on the line and they will not be paying it out, which is obviously a little disappointing,” said Noam, as he processed the unfair turn of events.

A Silver Lining: Alternative Prizes

Despite the setback, Noam did not leave empty-handed. The promotion company offered him some consolation prizes: courtside seats to future home games, $100 in gift cards to enjoy at the basketball arena, and a second chance at the shooting contest—this time, for a reduced prize of $1,000. While these gestures were appreciated, they couldn’t fully replace the excitement of what could have been a life-changing sum of money.

A Poker Vlogger’s Generous Offer

As news of Noam’s experience spread throughout the poker and sports communities, notable alumni and poker vlogger Ethan "Rampage" Yau stepped in, expressing his dismay with the promotion company’s ruling. Recognizing the impact that the $10,000 could have had on a college student’s life, Yau publicly announced his decision to contribute to Noam’s unexpected disappointment.

"As a UMass grad, this is pretty lame. Can someone get me in touch with the winner? I’ll give him 5K. When I was in college, winning even 1K would’ve been year-changing for me. You can’t scam college students like this," Yau tweeted, generating waves of support from the community. His action showcased not only camaraderie but also a spirit of generosity, reminiscent of the poker world’s close-knit nature.

Yau further noted that he spent countless hours working concession stands inside Mullins Center during his college years, emphasizing the importance of the contest’s winnings and how they affect students financially.

A Legacy of Excellence: Bernard Lee

The tale of Noam Lee cannot be told without acknowledging the impressive legacy of his father, Bernard Lee. An accomplished poker professional with over $2.4 million in lifetime live tournament cashes, including multiple World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) rings, Bernard has instilled values of resilience, perseverance, and sportsmanship in his son. Beyond poker, Bernard is a pickleball champion and an active philanthropist, showcasing his commitment to combating hunger in the Boston area through annual charitable initiatives.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Fairness and Generosity

Noam’s misadventure at the UMass basketball game exemplifies how momentous occasions can be turned on their heads by seemingly minor infractions. Nevertheless, the response from the community, specifically from figures like Ethan Yau, reminds us of the kindness and support that can emerge in the wake of disappointment.

While Noam may not have walked away with $10,000, the experience has not only ignited conversations surrounding contest fairness but may also inspire others to step forward, lift one another up, and create a network of support amidst the unpredictability of life’s challenges. The basketball court may host the thrills of competition and glory, but the heartwarming connections formed off the court can sometimes be even more rewarding.