Capital One Arena fell silent on Thursday night as the Wizards and Lakers paid tribute to the victims of the tragic plane crash in Washington DC.
An American Airlines passenger jet carrying 64 people crashed into a military helicopter while attempting to land at Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night.
Both aircraft plunged into the icy Potomac River, with officials saying that all 67 people on board are presumed dead.
Ahead of the Wizards’ first home game since the tragedy, the two teams held a moment’s silence before tipoff.
During the tribute, a message appeared on the big screens at Capital One Arena.
‘We are deeply saddened by the tragedy near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport last night,’ it read.
‘We extend our thoughts and prayers to the families, loved ones, and all those impacted.’
A moment of silence was also held before the NHL game between the Washington Capitals and the Ottawa Senators in Canada on Thursday night.
LeBron James and Co faced the Wizards less than 24 hours after the collision, which took place shortly before 9pm ET on Wednesday.
A Black Hawk helicopter cut through the airspace under cover of darkness, with both aircraft seemingly unaware of the other’s presence.
They slammed into one another just 400ft above ground, erupting in a violent explosion before plunging into the freezing Potomac River below.
Following the tragedy, the Washington Nationals, Wizards, Commanders and DC United paid tribute to the victims and first responders.
The Nationals wrote on X: ‘All of us at the Washington Nationals are devastated by the tragic events that unfolded last night near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones. We extend our deepest gratitude to the heroic first responders who aided in the rescue and recovery mission.’
The Commanders also offered a heartfelt statement. ‘We join all of the DMV in grieving the tremendous loss of life in last night’s horrific accident over the Potomac River,’ the team wrote.
‘Our hearts break for the families of the passengers and crew of American Airlines flight 5342 and the crew of the Army helicopter based out of Davison Army Airfield who tragically perished in the crash. Our entire community mourns with you.’
‘We are grateful to the first responders who worked throughout the night to support the search and rescue effort. May God bless all of the victims.’
Meanwhile, Monumental Sports and Entertainment, which owns several teams including the Wizards and Capitals, said they were ‘deeply saddened’ by what had occurred.
‘We extend our thoughts and prayers to the families, loved ones, and all those impacted. And we thank all the first responders for their heroic effort across this massive coordinated effort.’
MLS’ D.C. United also offered their condolences, adding: ‘Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the families and individuals impacted by this devastating event. As a club, we recognize these tragic moments affect not only those directly involved but the entire community.
‘In times of hardship, it is more important than ever that we stay united, supporting one another with compassion and strength. We stand with our city and our community as we navigate through this difficult moment together. ‘
