​Credit: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty ImagesAn unchecked hot mic led to one Sacramento Kings reporter’s harsh comments about Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine being heard by everyone.With several NBA teams hosting their Media Day ahead of the 2026-27 season, reporters were in attendance to speak to players.But there was one awkward moment at the Sacramento Kings’ training facility, as one unnoticed live mic caught a reporter’s comments about Ben Simmons and other stars.Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty ImagesSacramento Kings reporter caught calling Ben Simmons ‘cringe’ and ‘fine’ at NBA Media DayDuring the livestream of the Sacramento Kings’ NBA Media Day, there was an awkward moment between player availability, as the reporters’ mics were left turned on, capturing audio from their conversations.One reporter’s comments about Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine’s looks and appearances were caught on mic and quickly caught fire on social media.“That’s what comes with Ben Simmons. Cringe, cringe, he’s lucky he’s fine. He’s a good-looking dude. I didn’t notice. His skin is so smooth. I was like, ‘No tattoos?’“Zach is cute, but his personality annoys me. It just seems like he’s a h*** of a p****. He’s beautiful. I think I’d put Ben above Zach. He’s very smooth. The skincare routine.”There is no confirmation on who the reporter in question actually was, but eagle-eyed Kings fans quickly connected the dots.Currently, the speculation is that the reporter was Sara Hodges, a former sports presenter for CBS Sacramento who currently works for San Francisco’s local CBS affiliate in a similar role.Regardless of the identity of the reporter, there is no denying that this is a bad look for the reporter, as it comes off as highly unprofessional.There’s nothing wrong with finding these NBA players attractive, but to dismiss their abilities as players and their personalities while doing so is highly disrespectful.This leak could come with consequences for Hodges and the other reporters, as the Kings and other NBA teams could refuse future press credentials for them.Read more:The staggering seven-figure amount Ben Simmons will earn if he makes Kings’ opening-game rosterHow the Sacramento Kings reportedly made Ben Simmons decision ‘within minutes’Why Ben Simmons chose the Sacramento Kings over the Knicks and Warriors to revive his NBA career