Recent Developments in the WNBA Fan Conduct Investigation

Update: May 28, 2025, 10:54 a.m. ET – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has concluded its inquiry into allegations of racist remarks directed at players during the Indiana Fever versus Chicago Sky game held on May 17. The league announced that, after a comprehensive review, there is no substantial evidence to support the claims.

“We have thoroughly examined reports of racist fan behavior during the May 17, 2025, game between the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever,” the league stated on Tuesday, May 27. “Based on the information collected-including testimonies from fans, team personnel, and venue staff, as well as audio and video footage-the investigation did not confirm any misconduct. The WNBA remains dedicated to maintaining a safe, inclusive environment for all participants and will continue to enforce our fan code of conduct diligently.”

Note: This is a summary of the ongoing situation.

The league initially launched an investigation into reports of discriminatory language and behavior during the season opener in Indianapolis. While no specific players were publicly named, it is widely believed that the allegations involved Chicago Sky star Angel Reese.

“The WNBA condemns all forms of racism, hate, and discrimination-these have no place in our league or society at large,” the league emphasized in a statement issued on Sunday, May 18. “We take these allegations seriously and are committed to addressing any issues swiftly.”

The game, which Indiana Fever won convincingly with a score of 93-58, was highly anticipated, featuring a matchup between rising stars Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Both players, aged 23, gained prominence during their NCAA careers-Reese leading LSU to a national championship and Clark guiding Iowa to the finals. Their rivalry has become one of the most talked-about narratives in women’s basketball this season.

Continue reading to learn more about the WNBA’s investigation and the broader implications of this incident.

Key Players in the Spotlight

Clark, a 23-year-old point guard for the Indiana Fever, was selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, while Reese, also 23, was chosen seventh overall by the Chicago Sky. Their rivalry, which ignited during the 2023 NCAA championship where Reese’s LSU Tigers defeated Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes 102-85, has captivated fans and analysts alike. Despite their competitive history, both athletes have downplayed any personal animosity.

“Caitlin and I don’t harbor any real hostility,” Reese stated last season. “It’s just a highly competitive game, and I want everyone to understand that.”

Clark echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing their mutual respect and competitive spirit, which has fueled their rise in women’s basketball.

Reese highlighted the competitive environment of college basketball, noting, “Playing in the SEC for LSU helped shape my career, and the level of competition is what makes women’s basketball so exciting. We’ve had intense battles all year.”

Fans have often speculated about a rivalry, especially after Reese’s infamous “can’t see me” gesture directed at Clark during LSU’s championship victory, which added fuel to the fire of their competitive narrative.

Both players entered the WNBA with high expectations, quickly emerging as frontrunners for Rookie of the Year before Clark’s season was cut short due to injury and Reese’s season-ending ACL tear.

Understanding the Incident

The exact nature of the WNBA’s allegations remains undisclosed, but the incident involved a brief altercation between Clark and Reese during the game. Clark was penalized with a flagrant foul after a physical play where Reese secured an offensive rebound, and Clark responded by slapping at the ball, knocking Reese to the floor. Tensions appeared to escalate as Reese seemed ready to confront Clark, but teammates intervened.

While both athletes deny hearing any racial slurs during the incident, reports from fans and media outlets suggest that racial insults were directed at Reese, sparking widespread debate.

Significance of the Issue

Following multiple reports last year of players experiencing racist threats and harassment from fans, the WNBA launched its “No Room for Hate” initiative at the start of the 2025 season. The campaign seeks to combat hate speech and promote respect both online and in arenas.

In one notable incident, DiJonai Carrington of the Connecticut Sun accidentally made contact with Clark during a game, leading to threats and racist comments from fans, despite both players affirming it was unintentional. Reese also reported that fans had followed her home and shared explicit images of her on social media, highlighting the ongoing challenges athletes face off the court.

“Our league is committed to fostering a respectful environment,” stated WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Basketball is a unifying sport that brings diverse communities together, and we want our venues and digital spaces to reflect that spirit-free from hate and hostility.”

Reactions from the Players and Community

Clark addressed the media on May 20, expressing her support for the investigation. “There’s no place for hate in our sport or society,” she said. “I appreciate the league’s efforts to look into this matter, and I stand behind their process.”

Reese also voiced her appreciation for the league’s response, stating, “The WNBA and my team have been incredibly supportive throughout this ordeal. It’s important to recognize that if such incidents can happen to me, they could happen to anyone. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received.”

Additionally, Aliyah Boston, a fellow Fever player who intervened during the altercation, emphasized that “no form of hate is acceptable here.” She added, “Fans should be passionate, but always respectful. If it were your daughter on the court, you’d want her to be treated with dignity. Respect is fundamental for everyone entering our arenas.”

Next Steps and Future Outlook

The investigation remains ongoing, with both teams supporting the process. Once concluded, the league and the Fever will determine appropriate actions regarding any fan misconduct involved. The next matchup between the Sky and Fever is scheduled for June 7 in Chicago, with additional games in Indianapolis on August 9 and September 5.