League Concludes Investigation Into Fan Conduct at Sky-Fever Matchup
The WNBA says it has wrapped up its investigation into claims that racist remarks were made toward Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during a recent road game against the Indiana Fever—and found no evidence to support the allegations.
In a statement, the league confirmed it had reviewed audio and video footage of the game and interviewed fans, arena staff, and team personnel. “We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate,” said Sky CEO and President Adam Fox. “This process demonstrates the league’s strong stance on stopping hate at all WNBA games and events, and we will continue to support those efforts.”
Allegations Stemmed From Game Against Caitlin Clark and Fever
The allegations surfaced after the Sky’s 93-58 loss in Indianapolis earlier this month—a game that featured the latest chapter in the high-profile rivalry between Reese, who is Black, and Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, who is white.
Though details on what was allegedly said remain vague, a person familiar with the investigation confirmed the WNBA was specifically looking into claims of racist remarks being hurled at Reese from the crowd. However, Reese did not offer details when asked if she had personally contributed to the league’s inquiry, stating, “That’s not a me question.”
Players Shift Focus to the Court
Heading into a game against the Phoenix Mercury, Reese made clear that she had moved on. “I’m focused on the game today,” she said. “Going through this whole process, if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”
Sky head coach Tyler Marsh said while the organization appreciated the league taking action, the team was focused on the task at hand: getting their first win of the season. “We hope that the league continues to make the steps necessary moving forward to ensure a safe environment for everyone, all players included,” Marsh said.
Clark, who said she didn’t hear any inappropriate comments during the game, acknowledged how loud it gets at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “That doesn’t mean nothing happened,” she noted. “That’s why they’re looking into it. I’ll just trust the league’s investigation, and I’m sure they’ll do the right thing.”
Fever Organization Responds, Says Hate Has “No Place”
The Fever’s parent organization, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, also responded following the WNBA’s findings. “We appreciate the swift and thorough process undertaken by the WNBA to investigate these allegations, which were not substantiated,” said CEO Mel Raines. “At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, we are committed to providing the best possible basketball experience for players and fans where hate speech has absolutely no place.”
Both teams and the WNBA Players Association had previously voiced support for the investigation. The players union had not issued a follow-up comment at the time of the league’s final statement.
Reese, who had initially said she felt supported across the league, didn’t expand on what was allegedly said, but made it clear she views this situation as bigger than herself. “There’s no place in this league for that,” she said.
