Kings Reporters Caught On Hot Mic Calling Ben Simmons ‘Cringe’ And Zach LaVine ‘Hella Fine’ During Media Day

During the Sacramento Kings' media day livestream at Golden 1 Center, reporters were overheard on a hot mic making unprofessional remarks about players. The comments primarily targeted Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine, with media members critiquing their personalities and ranking their appearances. The remarks went viral shortly after being broadcast.

Simmons had recently joined the Kings on a one-year, $3.5 million deal in early September following a year out of the NBA. LaVine, who was acquired by Sacramento via a trade from the Chicago Bulls in February 2025, was also subjected to derogatory commentary regarding his attitude during the captured conversation.