Definition

Deliberately or carelessly losing a winning position, game, or match through poor play, bad decisions, or emotional breakdown when victory was within reach. Often involves a sudden collapse in performance.

Example Usage

We were up 20 points with two minutes left, but our team threw the game with bad passes.

Origin

Likely from 'throwing away' opportunities; popularized in esports and sports commentary.

Fun Fact

The term has become mainstream in sports beyond gaming—commentators use it to describe comebacks where the leading team implodes.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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