{
  "id": 9694818,
  "title": "Raptors Star Goes Viral for Antics Behind Reporter's Live Hit",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/raptors-star-goes-viral-for-antics-behind-reporters-live-hit",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-25T03:54:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/raptors-star-goes-viral-for-antics-behind-reporters-live-hit-12486428"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Toronto Raptors star Scottie Barnes has gained notoriety for his humorous antics outside the team's facility, which involved interacting with a live reporter. During a live broadcast, Barnes was reported to be eating lunch near a window when Sean Leathong, a reporter from CP24, began his coverage of the recently completed trade that brought back Kawhi Leonard. As Leathong announced the extension of Leonard's $115 million contract over two years, Barnes quickly responded with excitement and disbelief. The reporter noted that Barnes seemed to be particularly interested in the Toronto Raptors, even turning for a camera selfie after the announcement. Leathong stated that Barnes did not want to do an interview but was clearly intrigued by the camera. Barnes denied any behind-the-scenes antics, stating that he was simply back there as usual. Despite his playful behavior, Leathong acknowledged Barnes as a key contributor to the Raptors, noting his impressive performance last season, including career highs in field goal percentage, free throw percentage, points per game, rebounds, and assists. The addition of Leonard to the team boosts their chances of building on their playoff berth and potentially advancing further in the Eastern Conference.",
  "summary": "A Toronto Raptors player had some fun with a reporter at the team's facility on Thursday.",
  "key_points": [
    "Scottie Barnes interacted with live reporter Sean Leathong during trade announcement.",
    "Barnes excitedly responded to Kawhi Leonard's contract extension details.",
    "Barnes denied behind-the-scenes antics, claimed to be back there as usual."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}