Indiana Fever fan starts petition to eliminate fan interference with broadcasts

ABC 57

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A unique online petition has been started  to fix an audio issue that allows for fans near the scorer's table to be heard too often during Indiana Fever game broadcasts. 

The fans who have signed the petition are calling on the Fever and Gainbridge Fieldhouse to fix a persistent audio issue that’s disrupting game broadcasts.

Josh McNattin started the petition asking the Fever to address the in-arena sound problem—specifically, a single fan’s loud, repetitive voice near the scorer’s table that’s been consistently picked up on mic during home games.

Fans are saying it’s overpowering commentary and ambient sound, and has become a topic of frustration across Reddit and WNBA forums.

The petition proposes relatively simple technical solutions, like rebalancing microphone placement or adjusting filters, to improve the viewing experience for streamers and at-home audiences.

The petition reads:

We, the undersigned fans and supporters of the Indiana Fever, are writing to express a shared concern regarding the in-arena audio mix during home game broadcasts.

During every Fever home game, a distinct and persistent voice—believed to be from a fan seated close to the scorer’s table—can be heard loudly and frequently throughout the entire game. While we celebrate the passion of all fans, this particular sound consistently overpowers other audio elements, including the commentary and ambient crowd noise. As a result, it can detract from the viewing experience for many fans watching from home or streaming online.

This issue has become a frequent topic of discussion in online communities, including Reddit and WNBA fan forums. The consensus is not a criticism of any individual fan’s enthusiasm, but rather a call for an audio solution that preserves the game’s energy while ensuring a balanced broadcast mix.

We respectfully request that the Indiana Fever and the Gainbridge Fieldhouse technical team consider investigating and implementing a solution.

Potential approaches may include:

  • Adjusting microphone placement or polar patterns near the scorer’s table to limit crowd bleed.
  • Using directional mics or acoustic baffles to reduce unwanted vocal pickup.
  • Employing EQ filters or ducking algorithms during broadcasts to minimize overpowering frequencies.
  • Adding more balanced ambient crowd mics from multiple zones of the arena.

We know that Fever management is committed to providing a high-quality experience for both in-person and remote fans. Your attention to this matter would mean a great deal to those of us who love watching Fever games and supporting the WNBA.

Thank you for listening and for all you do to grow the game.

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