A group of reporters covering the Sacramento Kings learned one of the most important rules in broadcasting the hard way: Always assume the microphone is on.
During the Kings’ recent media day, at least three reporters were accidentally heard having a very candid conversation about players Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine while a livestream continued rolling between interviews.
And the conversation had absolutely nothing to do with basketball.
One reporter called Simmons “cringe” after discussing something he said during his interview.
But another reporter quickly added that Simmons was “lucky he’s so fine.”
The group went on to compliment his appearance, including his smooth skin and lack of tattoos.
Then Zach LaVine entered the conversation.
One reporter described LaVine as “hella fine” while also saying she found his personality annoying.
Before long, they were comparing the two players and debating which one was more attractive, with Simmons apparently winning their unofficial ranking.
Unfortunately for the reporters, fans could hear everything.
Clips from the livestream quickly spread across social media before the original video was removed.
Reaction has been mixed. Some people found the conversation hilarious and harmless, while others argued that journalists making personal comments about athletes they professionally cover crossed a line.
LaVine’s wife, Hunter LaVine, even appeared to laugh off the situation on social media.
Either way, this is another reminder that when you work around microphones, save the private conversation until you are absolutely sure that red light is off.