Reporter Tristi Rodriguez Responds to Misidentification In Media Day Incident

During the Sacramento Kings Media Day on Monday, an overheard conversation among reporters sparked online speculation about the identities of those involved. This speculation led to mistaken online harassment, affecting people who were not actually involved.

One of those mistakenly identified was Tristi Rodriguez, a digital content producer for NBC Sports Bay Area and California. She addressed the situation on social media to clarify her non-involvement. On Friday, Rodriguez stated, “The past few days have been tough. I got dragged into something that had nothing to do with me, and I watched my name and reputation be tarnished across the internet. To be very clear – that was not my voice at Kings Media Day.”

Fans online made assumptions about the three voices heard discussing the attractiveness of players Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine, resulting in various River City press members being harassed. The voices included two women and one man.

Rodriguez further emphasized her concern for her reputation, stating, “I want to clear my name, not for the trolls who have flooded my mentions and DMs with horrific messages, but for myself.” She thanked her supporters, adding, “Thank you to those who know me and know my professionalism and immediately knew that wasn’t me. Your messages, support, and love have gone a long way over these extremely dark days.”

Rodriguez’s professional work includes covering the Kings, Golden State Warriors, and the San Francisco 49ers.