OKC Thunder fan may have to give away $20,000 halfcourt shot prize due to NAIA rules

[RockaFowler]

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/okc-thunder-fan-may-away-20-000-halfcourt-012154382--nba.html

Sometimes a prize can be a hassle. Last week, the Oklahoma City Thunder paid out two $20,000 prizes to fans for hitting halfcourt shots, continuing a stunning run of form in which participants made the basket in five of 22 games stretching back to last spring. The first of that duo, Cameron Rodriguez, nailed his shot on November 18 against the Denver Nuggets and proceeded to tackle mascot Rumble the Bison, go crazy, and chase that feeling on social media for quite some time. He was clearly very excited.

Unfortunately, Rodriguez now faces the possibility of losing his $20,000 prize due to NAIA rules. As a student and basketball player at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, Rodriguez is not allowed to profit off his athletic ability. Given the circumstances, he's now trying to figure out his money and maintain his eligibility.

[trumad]

1. Stupid rule

[ProfessorGAC]

2. Took The Words Right Out of My Mouth, Tru

It's like hitting the lotto. What are the odds he would be picked in the first place, then had to hit the shot from 47 feet away. 1 in 20,000 * (maybe) 1 in 10.

Let the kid keep the money. His being a basketball player had very little to do with him winning that prize.
GAC

[Auggie]

4. Yes

[joeybee12]

3. Just tell them he used the money for tattoos...

He could probably get away with that.