Pistons Fans Targeted in Ticket Scam After Playoff Loss

DETROIT – A ticket scam has disappointed Pistons fans following their loss to the New York Knicks in Game 4 of the NBA playoffs. Many fans discovered that their tickets, purchased from a third-party website, were fake just moments before tipoff.

Joi Smith, a fan who lost nearly $900 on fraudulent tickets, shared her ordeal with Local 4. She bought the tickets from a popular resale site but learned they were flagged as already claimed when she contacted the venue.

“I was talking to the lady, and she was like, ‘No, these tickets were flagged as four people was trying to claim those tickets,’” Smith recounted. “She was like, ‘The tickets are no good.’”

Smith is not alone; many others found themselves in the same predicament. She described efforts to explain to staff that her tickets were legitimate, but was met with skepticism. “I was trying to tell them that these tickets have already been claimed, and they were like, ‘No, they’re just having a problem getting them through to you,’” Smith said.

Nakia Mills from the Better Business Bureau advised consumers to be cautious when buying tickets online. She noted that scams often increase when teams are in the playoffs. “People just need to be careful if they’re searching online and they’re clicking because there are also imposter websites,” Mills said.

After realizing her tickets were fraudulent, Smith contacted StubHub and her credit card provider. Fortunately, she was able to secure a refund. Smith emphasized the importance of using official sources for ticket purchases. “No more third parties,” she warned. “I’m never doing third party again. Go to the box office.”

The Better Business Bureau continues to warn consumers about the risks of online ticket sales, especially during high-profile games.