A couple of weeks ago we held the annual Fanatic Knockout Tournament. An event that has been held for nearly a decade now. The Fanatic Staff, and a group of listeners who won tickets, attend a Sixers game. But the best part comes after the game. We get to go onto the Wells Fargo Center Court and play a game of Knockout.
For those unfamiliar with the game, you get in a line and try to hit Free Throws. If you miss, you have to make a layup before the person behind you hits their free throw. If they make it before you, you are knocked out. Otherwise, you move to the back of the line. You continue from there until there is only 1 person left standing
The Fanatic Knockout Tournament Rivalries
It has led to some fierce competition from the Fantic Staff. Two years ago Tom Alvord was the Staff Champion. But because of circumstances outside his control, he could not attend last year. And without the reigning champion, Connor Thomas snuck by and was crowned the 2023 Fanatic Staff Champion. Leading to a lot of debate about who would have won if Tom made it. This year, both made it though, and we got our answer.
That was not the only rivalry though. Myself and Ray Dunne also had a bit of a back and forth. As the new guy last year, he showed a lot of nerve by not only Knocking me out but waving goodbye. I did not see him wave me goodbye. I was too disappointed in my performance. Ray made sure I saw it though by sending me the video of it the next day.
In truth, none of the Fanatic staff had ever won it outright. They only outlasted the rest of the Fanatic Staff. Our last two actual winners were brothers oddly enough. And their dad just so happens to be a former Pro Wrestler, Sal Sincere. They returned this year to try and protect the actual crown.
So who won? Both among the listeners and among the staff? What were the best moments from the night? We put together a gallery of some of the highlights.