Duquesne basketball game disrupted by DoorDash delivery driver was prank, university says

PITTSBURGH — Initially, it all looked like a harmless accident and an innocent mistake. But as it turns out, the “DoorDash Delivery person” who stepped onto the court at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse Monday night was actually part of a planned prank.

“I see this commotion with somebody trying to walk on the court,” said Duquesne play-by-play announcer Tim Benz. “I didn’t realize at the moment how far on the court he had gotten while play was going on.”

Fans, coaches and members of the broadcast crew, including Benz, were all incredibly confused when someone who appeared to be delivering DoorDash walked onto the court in the middle of Monday’s game between Duquesne and Loyola-Chicago.

“The impression that Ellis, my color commentator, and I both had was this was some guy who genuinely was trying to deliver food to someone in the building,” said Benz. “I’ve come to learn to expect anything in the internet and delivery age that stuff like this could happen. I’ve seen it delivered anywhere.”

Benz said they thought it was an accident.

It turns out that was not the case. Duquesne University confirmed to Channel 11 this was a planned prank, sending us the YouTube video that was posted Tuesday morning with the behind-the-scenes footage. The University sent us a statement, which says:

“Duquesne University strives to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for guests and participants at all events on our campus. We also rely on common courtesy and the civility of those in attendance to adhere to the guidelines that are in place.

“This was a prank, planned in advance, done for internet exposure. We determined that the individual was wearing a mic while someone filmed him as he walked on to the court during active play. While the incident may have seemed funny at the time, and no harm was done, we are mindful that incidents like this can put players and officials at risk.

“The University has reviewed its safety protocols and tightened its security measures to ensure conditions for our players and fans are safe and meet the standards for the highest level of competition in college basketball.”

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