League Launches Probe Into Fan Behavior
The WNBA is investigating alleged racist remarks made by fans during Saturday’s game between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky—a heated rivalry match between two of the league’s most-watched rookies, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. According to a person familiar with the matter, racial taunts were reportedly directed toward Reese during the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
In a statement released Sunday, the league said, “The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society.” The league confirmed it is reviewing the incident.
On-Court Clash Adds Fuel to Rivalry
The incident unfolded as tensions on the court escalated. With 4:38 left in the third quarter, Clark fouled Reese hard while attempting to disrupt a rebound play, knocking her to the floor. When Reese stood to confront Clark, Indiana center Aliyah Boston stepped in. Following a review, Clark was issued a flagrant 1 foul, while Reese and Boston were each assessed technicals.
Reese shrugged it off during the postgame press conference, saying, “Refs got it right — move on.” Sky head coach Tyler Marsh also described the play as nothing more than a “basketball play.”
Teams Speak Out Amid ‘No Space for Hate’ Campaign
This marks the first major test of the WNBA’s newly launched “No Space for Hate” initiative, aimed at tackling hate across online platforms and arena environments. The campaign focuses on digital monitoring, arena security, mental health resources, and league-wide unity against discrimination.
“We are aware of the allegations of inappropriate fan conduct during yesterday’s game and we are working closely with the WNBA to complete their investigation,” the Fever said in a statement.
Sky CEO Adam Fox added, “We will do everything in our power to protect Chicago Sky players, and we encourage the league to continue taking meaningful steps to create a safe environment for all WNBA players.”
Players Union Backs Accountability
The WNBA Players Association also released a statement in support of the investigation:
“Such behavior is unacceptable in our sport… Under the WNBA’s ‘No Space for Hate’ policy, we trust the league to thoroughly investigate and take swift, appropriate action to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.”
Reese, who starred at LSU before going pro, has been a key figure in the league’s rising popularity. Her college rivalry with Iowa’s Caitlin Clark—who finished with 20 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds in the Fever’s 93-58 win—continues to draw national attention.
A Test Beyond the Scoreboard
This off-court incident has placed a spotlight not just on the Clark-Reese rivalry, but on the league’s commitment to protecting players from hate in all forms. As Aces star A’ja Wilson said last week, “It’s nice in words, but we got to see actions… We’re human. People have to respect that.”
The Fever and Sky will face off four more times this regular season—games that now carry weight beyond basketball.
