WNBA Investigates Racial Slurs Directed at Angel Reese/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The WNBA is investigating allegations of racist slurs shouted at Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during a game against the Indiana Fever. The incident occurred Saturday amid heightened tensions in her rivalry with Caitlin Clark. Players, union officials, and both teams have expressed strong support for a thorough investigation and zero tolerance for hate.
Angel Reese Racial Taunts: Quick Looks
- WNBA opens investigation after reports of racial slurs targeted at Angel Reese during a game in Indiana.
- Incident occurred during Sky vs. Fever matchup Saturday; Reese had 12 points and 17 rebounds.
- Rivalry matchup with Caitlin Clark, who fouled Reese during a tense third-quarter play.
- The league condemned racism, citing its “No Space for Hate” initiative.
- WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) voiced support for accountability and player safety.
- Chicago Sky CEO Adam Fox: “We will protect our players.”
- Indiana Fever organization cooperating with investigation, reaffirming commitment to safety.
- The WNBA’s new anti-hate initiative includes security, tech tools, and mental health support.
- This is the first high-profile test case of the initiative since its rollout.
- A’ja Wilson and other players call for more than words—they want action.
WNBA Investigates Racial Slurs Directed at Angel Reese
Deep Look
Angel Reese Targeted by Racial Abuse During Game in Indiana, WNBA Launches Investigation
NEW YORK — The WNBA is actively investigating allegations that Angel Reese, forward for the Chicago Sky, was subjected to racist remarks from fans during a Saturday loss to the Indiana Fever, a person familiar with the situation confirmed to the Associated Press.
The source, speaking on condition of anonymity because the league has not formally released the identities involved, said the incident occurred during a nationally spotlighted matchup between Reese and Fever star Caitlin Clark, reigniting tensions in what has become one of the WNBA’s most discussed rivalries.
The WNBA issued a swift statement on Sunday:
“The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society. We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter.”
Union and Team Reactions
The WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) quickly backed the league’s efforts and emphasized that such behavior is antithetical to everything the league represents.
“Such behavior is unacceptable in our sport,” the union said. “We trust the league to take swift, appropriate action.”
Chicago Sky CEO Adam Fox echoed the sentiment, saying the team would “do everything in our power to protect our players.”
The Indiana Fever also acknowledged the incident and confirmed their cooperation with the league’s investigation, saying they were “committed to a safe environment for all WNBA players.”
Heated On-Court Moment
The incident follows a physical confrontation between Reese and Clark during the third quarter. After Reese grabbed an offensive rebound, Clark struck her arm, knocking her to the floor. Tensions escalated as Reese rose to confront Clark, only to be separated by Aliyah Boston.
- Clark’s foul was upgraded to a flagrant 1
- Reese and Boston received technical fouls
- Both downplayed the incident postgame
Despite the off-court drama, Reese recorded an impressive double-double with 12 points and 17 rebounds, though the Sky lost 93–58.
“No Space for Hate” Gets Real Test
The WNBA launched its “No Space for Hate” initiative this season, a multi-pronged effort aimed at curbing hate speech and discrimination both online and in stadiums. The policy focuses on:
- Enhanced tech tools to detect online abuse
- Increased team, arena, and league-level security
- Better mental health resources for players
- Unified league response against hate speech
This is the first major incident to put the initiative to the test.
Star Players Speak Out
A’ja Wilson, star forward for the Las Vegas Aces, emphasized the human element of what athletes endure:
“It’s nice in words, but we got to see actions. People have to respect that we’re human,” she said. “I hope they pay attention and listen.”
Other league veterans and media commentators have noted that racist abuse in sports — particularly targeting Black women — is not new, but has too often gone unaddressed or under-penalized.
Broader Context
The matchup between Reese and Clark has drawn massive national attention, partly due to their on-court rivalry and contrasting media narratives. Clark, who is white, has enjoyed significant fanfare since her historic NCAA run, while Reese, a Black player, has faced disproportionate criticism for similar confidence and passion.
The incident now places the WNBA in a critical position: its ability to enforce its anti-hate policies may determine public confidence in its commitment to player safety and equity.
