Quick Read
- Perth Wildcats fined $3,000 by the NBL.
- Assistant coach Ben Peterson blocked a broadcast camera during a game.
- The incident occurred on January 25 during a match against Melbourne United.
- Peterson must provide a formal written apology to the camera operator.
- The Wildcats have seven days to appeal the NBL’s decision.
PERTH (Azat TV) – The Perth Wildcats have been fined $3,000 by the National Basketball League (NBL) and their assistant coach, Ben Peterson, has been ordered to issue a formal written apology following an incident on January 25 where he blocked a broadcast camera during a tense moment in a game against Melbourne United. The NBL determined that the club breached specific clauses of its Code of Conduct related to interactions between team personnel and broadcast staff during live game coverage.
The penalty, announced on Thursday, February 5, 2026, includes an immediate payment of $2,000, with an additional $1,000 suspended for 24 months, contingent on no further similar breaches. The league’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining professional standards for all personnel involved in game day operations and broadcasting.
NBL Sanctions Perth Wildcats for Code Breach
The incident occurred during the Wildcats’ narrow 74–73 loss to Melbourne United. During a critical juncture, Ben Peterson used a sheet of paper to obstruct a camera that was positioned near the team’s huddle. The NBL’s investigation concluded that this action constituted a breach of clauses 2.3 and 2.6 of the NBL Code of Conduct, which govern appropriate interactions between club staff and broadcast personnel.
Peterson addressed the incident the day after it happened during an interview on 91.3 Sports Breakfast, describing his action as a ‘split-second decision.’ He explained his rationale, stating, ‘There’s a camera two inches away from our guys’ huddle, and I feel like there needs to be a little bit of personal space. You’re just trying to diffuse the situation in that moment, trying to protect our guys.’
Assistant Coach Ben Peterson Ordered to Apologize
Beyond the financial penalty, the NBL’s determination mandates that Ben Peterson provide a formal written apology directly to the broadcast camera operator involved in the incident. Furthermore, the Perth Wildcats organization is required to implement internal education for all relevant staff to ensure appropriate interactions with both broadcast and match-day personnel going forward. This educational component aims to prevent similar incidents and reinforce the established guidelines for conduct.
The Perth Wildcats have been granted a period of seven days from the date of the decision to formally appeal the NBL’s ruling. The league’s firm stance on this matter highlights the importance of maintaining a respectful and professional environment for all parties involved in the production and broadcasting of NBL games.
The NBL’s swift and decisive action in fining the Perth Wildcats and mandating an apology and education reflects a clear effort to uphold the integrity of its broadcast partnerships and ensure a professional environment for all personnel operating within the league.