Kings WAG Hunter LaVine Responds to Reporters' Hot-Mic Comments
The wife of Sacramento Kings star Zach LaVine addressed remarks made by reporters about her husband's looks and personality during media day.
Hunter LaVine, wife of Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine, has responded to a viral hot-mic recording in which reporters made comments about her husband's appearance and personality. The incident occurred during media day on Monday, with the unfortunate audio being broadcast on several live feeds.
One reporter was heard saying Zach LaVine seemed like a "hell of a p****," while another described him as "hella like a p****" and a "f***ing typical UCLA guy." Another female reporter also commented on teammate Ben Simmons, calling him "fine" but "cringe" and noting his smooth skin.
Hunter LaVine addressed the comments on Instagram, writing, "I love my husband's personality." The recording featured at least three unidentified individuals, including two women and one man, who were unaware they were being broadcast.
The slang term "hella," used by one reporter to describe LaVine, suggests the speaker may be a local reporter, as the term originated in the Bay Area and is more common in California.
The Sacramento Kings did not respond to requests for comment. This incident echoes a similar event last year when Toronto Raptors reporters were overheard making critical remarks about their players, which were later shared online by player Scottie Barnes.
In a more prominent past instance, then-presidential candidate George W. Bush and vice-presidential candidate Dick Cheney were recorded making disparaging remarks about a New York Times reporter over a hot mic in 2000.
Ben Simmons, who was also mentioned in the recording, addressed speculation about his commitment to the game. "All these people talk about me not loving the game, that's bulls***," Simmons stated. "People just want to get their podcast off. I love the game. That's why I took a year off to focus on myself and get back to where I'm at. Now the old Ben has woken up. I want to dominate every time I step on the floor."
The Kings are returning a similar roster from the previous season under head coach Doug Christie. Beyond Simmons, their notable acquisition is former Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. through the draft.