Muhl was playing for Besiktas against rivals Fenerbahce
Chaos erupted in Istanbul when fireworks thrown by unruly fans forced the postponement of the SuperCup Women title game between Besiktas JK and Fenerbahce SK. What started as a disturbance escalated into a heartbreaking event for Seattle Storm’s rookie Nika Muhl, leaving the audience stunned and players concerned for her well-being.
The incident, which unfolded over two days, had its beginnings on Wednesday when fireworks launched from the crowd interrupted the first quarter. Players, startled and unsettled, were ushered back to the locker rooms as the arena filled with smoke. Amid the confusion, one broadcaster lamented, “It really is sad that a small number of fans have such a big impact on what’s supposed to be a wonderful occasion here in Istanbul.” The game was halted with Fenerbahce holding a slim 4-2 lead and was postponed until Thursday.
Thursday’s resumption seemed poised for an intense clash as the two teams battled for the SuperCup Women title. However, with just three minutes left in the third quarter, the atmosphere took a dire turn. Fenerbahce held a slight 51-46 advantage over Besiktas when Muhl fell awkwardly, grasping her left knee and crying out in pain. Her agonizing shouts, “Oh my God, don’t touch it!” echoed through the arena, and medical personnel swiftly rushed to her side.
Muhl, who was selected in the second round of this year’s WNBA Draft by the Storm, had been playing an impressive game before her injury, contributing 11 points, 9 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals. Her stellar performance made her sudden fall all the more shocking to fans and players alike. Among those rushing to Muhl’s aid was her Seattle Storm teammate Gabby Williams, who also played a key role for Fenerbahce. Williams, herself a former UConn star, stayed by Muhl’s side as medical staff attended to her on the court.
Muhl was seen after the game in a bandage
After being stretchered off, Muhl eventually returned to the bench with her left knee wrapped in a white bandage, though she did not re-enter the game. A post-game photo showed her with her teammates, visibly in pain but putting on a brave face. Despite the emotional setback, the Besiktas players rallied to show support for Muhl, with members of Fenerbahce, including Williams, offering hugs and words of comfort near the bench.
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As the game concluded, Fenerbahce claimed the championship title with a 79-63 victory over Besiktas, with Williams leading her team alongside an MVP-worthy performance. She tallied 11 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, solidifying her impact on the game despite the chaos and concern surrounding her teammate.
The troubling events in Istanbul underscore not only the passion but also the risks of international basketball competitions. What should have been a memorable occasion celebrating basketball was marred by dangerous fan behavior and an unfortunate injury to a promising young athlete. As Nika Muhl faces an uncertain road to recovery, her resilience and determination will undoubtedly be tested in the weeks ahead.
