The WNBA has opened an investigation into allegations of racist comments from fans, reportedly directed at Chicago Sky Forward Angel Reese.
“The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society,” the organization said in a statement. “We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter.”
According to an Associated Press report, Reese was the target of the comments. While the league acknowledged the investigation, it has not named Reese as the player to whom the racial insults were directed.
This investigation follows Reese’s most recent matchup against rival Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on Saturday, which saw the Sky lose 58-93. Following the game, the Sky issued a statement:
“We welcome the WNBA’s investigation of allegations of fan misconduct during our first game of the season,” Sky President Adam Fox wrote in a statement. “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.”
The union behind WNBA players also made a statement on Sunday, condemning “hateful comments at yesterday’s game in Indianapolis.”
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“Such behavior is unacceptable in our sport,” the WBNA Players Association said. “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.”
Saturday’s game was the seventh time Reese has faced off against Clark. In the 2024 WNBA draft, Clark was the No. 1 pick, and Reese was selected seventh overall. Reese was the only 2024 rookie to score more than 10 points in each of her first five games. During her debut WNBA game, Clark tied for the highest scorer with Wings player and fellow rookie Jaelyn Brown.
