Samantha Rivera of CBS Miami fends off harassing fan on live TV during Stanley Cup coverage, gets lauded by fans

Samantha Rivera of CBS Miami found herself in the spotlight after Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. As the Vegas Golden Knights triumphed over the Florida Panthers with a resounding 7-2 victory, Rivera's quick thinking to deal with a rowdy fan caught the attention of viewers.

During Rivera's segment after the match, a belligerent fan attempted to disrupt the live broadcast by getting in the frame. But in a remarkable display of professionalism and multitasking, Rivera employed a textbook stiff-arm maneuver, ensuring the fan's interference was swiftly quelled.

The incident lasted mere seconds, but its impact resonated with fans across the nation.

Rivera's composed response under pressure garnered admiration from viewers, who flooded social media with praise for her professionalism and quick reflexes. Her ability to maintain her focus on the game while effectively handling the situation only amplified the respect she received.

While the Florida Panthers endured another underwhelming performance, Rivera's handling of the unexpected interruption became a highlight of the night.

Bilingual sports journalist Samantha Rivera joins CBS News Miami, bringing dynamic expertise to the 305

Samantha Rivera, a talented bilingual sports journalist fluent in both English and Spanish, recently joined the CBS News Miami family, bringing her passion and expertise to the vibrant sports scene of the 305. Hailing from the Chicagoland area, Rivera has accumulated a wealth of experience in her career, solidifying her reputation as a respected sports reporter and anchor.

Rivera's journey began in her hometown, where she worked as a sports reporter and anchor for NBC5 Chicago, Telemundo Chicago, and NBC Sports Chicago. Her dedication to covering sports and delivering captivating stories led her to various locations, including San Diego, Rockford in Illinois, and Marquette in Michigan. Through these experiences, Rivera honed her skills and developed a keen understanding of the sports industry.

A proud alumna of DePaul University, Rivera holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations, and advertising. Her education provided her with a solid foundation for her career, equipping her with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field.

Samantha Rivera's commitment to her craft extends beyond her professional achievements. As a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, she actively contributes to promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry, while also amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities.