Tristi Rodriguez denies involvement in Kings media day hot-mic incident

NBC Sports Bay Area reporter Tristi Rodriguez has issued a statement to deny involvement in a viral hot-mic incident during the Sacramento Kings' media day. During the event, an open microphone captured voices discussing the appearance and personalities of NBA players Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine.

Rodriguez stated that she was wrongly identified by social media users, leading to what she described as “horrific messages” and damage to her reputation. In a statement released on X, she clarified, “To be very clear, that was not my voice at Kings Media Day,” and expressed gratitude to those who recognized her professionalism despite the online speculation. She indicated she intends to move forward with her coverage of the upcoming NBA season.