Viral rumor claims NBA is investigating Thompson twins for swapping teams during playoffs—But it’s not true

NBA Thompson Twins Swap Investigation? Here’s the Truth Behind the Viral Hoax

Social media exploded after a report went viral claiming that the NBA had launched an investigation into rookie twin brothers Amen and Ausar Thompson for allegedly switching places during the 2025 NBA playoffs. According to the claim, the alleged swap happened sometime after both the Houston Rockets and Detroit Pistons won gritty Game 2 victories in their first-round playoff series, tying each series at 1-1.

The story alleged that the NBA was looking into whether Amen (Rockets) and Ausar (Pistons) had swapped jerseys and teams—a move that, if true, would constitute a major breach of league integrity rules and could lead to serious disciplinary action.

Only one problem: it never happened.

Game 2 Recaps: The Verified Facts

The Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors 109-94 on April 23, 2025, last night, tying their series 1-1. Amen Thompson played in that game, contributing assists and high-energy plays that helped Houston even the series.

The Pistons beat the New York Knicks 100-94 on April 21, 2025, also tying their series 1-1. Ausar Thompson had 5 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals in that game before fouling out.

Both players were accounted for on their respective teams during these games. Their minutes, stats, and performances were covered by ESPN, NBA.com, and other credible sports outlets.

Given the level of accusations, an investigation announcement would’ve been reported by the league. So, it’s obvious someone put this rumor out as a joke. A few years ago, a similar joke was made about the Morris twins, Markieff Morris and Marcus Morris.

No Investigation Confirmed by the NBA

Despite the viral narrative, there is zero evidence from any official NBA source—or from ESPN, The Athletic, or any reputable media outlet—to suggest the league is investigating Amen and Ausar Thompson.

Searches across NBA.com, ESPN, and verified X (formerly Twitter) accounts show no credible reporting of any such investigation. No league statements, no quotes from coaches or front offices, and no insider confirmations support this wild claim.

Adam Silver’s tenure as the commissioner of the NBA has seen plenty of wild moments. In addition, it’s seen plenty of innovation and experiments. However, when outrageous things take place, Silver always speaks out. Normally, the league will come with an official statement. Afterwards, Silver comes with a video.

Currently, Silver is enjoying the high ratings the 2025 NBA Playoffs are bringing in, so far.

Where the Rumor Came From

The rumor appears to have gained traction on Facebook and X shortly after both Game 2 wins, fueled by the twins’ identical appearances and a long-running joke among fans that they’d one day “pull a switch.”

A Facebook page called “Box Score PH” created the rumor. It feeds off the jokes people have made about NBA twins in the playoffs. The post has gone viral, getting nearly 800 views in less than five hours since it was posted. Because of the official-looking graphics, it was easy for people to fall for this hoax.

While it’s a fun idea for meme culture, the logistics of such a swap make it virtually impossible—especially during the NBA playoffs, where player tracking, coaching strategies, biometric monitoring, and league protocols make disguising a player for an entire game unfeasible.

Who Are Amen and Ausar Thompson?

Amen Thompson was drafted 4th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2023 NBA Draft. Ausar was picked right after him at No. 5 by the Detroit Pistons, making them the first set of brothers drafted in the top 10 in the same draft since the NBA/ABA merger.

Amen averaged 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in his career to date. Ausar, meanwhile, contributed 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. Both players had impactful rookie campaigns and are crucial pieces for their rebuilding teams.

Their playoff performances have only reinforced their reputations:

• Amen: Key rebounding and assists in Game 1; alley-oop and slashing scores in Game 2.
• Ausar: Defensive intensity, steals, and rebounds in Game 2 helped snap a 15-game Pistons playoff losing streak.

Debunking the Narrative

Let’s break down why the rumors of the NBA Thompson twins being investigated for switching places falls apart:

• No Reporting: No major sports news outlet has picked up the story.
• No League Statement: The NBA has issued no statement confirming or denying such an investigation, which would be front-page news if true.
• Identified and Tracked: Both players have individual stats, facial IDs, on-court video footage, and are surrounded by coaches, team personnel, and security that make a player switch impossible.
• Logistics: Each player is contractually obligated to their team, with distinct uniforms, practice schedules, and medical staffs.

NBA Fans React to the Rumor

As the story picked up steam, fans flooded social media with reactions ranging from disbelief to hilarity. Here’s a breakdown of the chatter:

• “One fade is crispier 😂” – Many joked about how to spot the difference between the twins.
• “Man be fr with this…” – Doubts poured in quickly, with people calling the idea absurd.
• “They play completely different, it’s not even close lol” – Fans pointed to their unique playing styles.
• “Even if I had a twin I wouldn’t even have the energy for that 🤣🤣” – The idea that they’d willingly pull off this stunt was met with laughter.
• “They don’t even run the same plays.”
• “So what they investigating though. They both can hoop.”
• “Bro that’s crazy cause I had questioned the day of that game I was like why tf is Amen with Detroit.”
• “Amen be balling! Point blank period and I see that every Rockets game!!!!”
• “It’s easy by the facial expressions and body language… one’s happy cause he’s in Houston and the other is depressed in Detroit.”
• “Good movie idea.”
• “Anyway to get the Warriors to win. Huh, NBA?” – Some joked it was a conspiracy against Golden State.

A Tale of Two Talents — and No Switch

Amen and Ausar Thompson made NBA history when they were drafted 4th and 5th overall in 2023 — the first brothers ever drafted in the top 5 in the same year. Both came through Overtime Elite and have lived parallel, yet distinctly individual, journeys.

Their first playoff appearances have been a continuation of that trajectory. While the viral claim made for entertainment, it’s not grounded in any reality. No swap happened, and the NBA has not launched any kind of probe.

Conclusion: Don’t Believe Everything You Scroll Past

As of April 24, 2025 at 4:23 pm EST, there is no investigation into Amen and Ausar Thompson. The story is false and appears to be a viral hoax. Both twins are playing hard in their respective series, earning praise for their hustle and maturity as rookies.

So, while it might make for a fun hypothetical or a plotline in a basketball movie, in the real world of high-stakes playoff basketball, this twin switch theory just doesn’t hold up.

Always check your sources before sharing a viral headline. In the case of the Thompson twins, they’re just two young stars trying to lead their teams to the next round—no swap needed.