WNBA mentioned on Sunday it had launched an investigation into allegations of “hateful” fan feedback throughout the Indiana Fever’s season-opening conflict with the Chicago Sky.
Indiana’s 93-58 win over Chicago on Saturday made headlines after a flashpoint within the third quarter when Sky star Angel Reese was fouled by Indiana’s Caitlin Clark.
Reese, who has a long-time rivalry with Indiana prodigy Clark since their collegiate careers, reacted angrily after being bundled over by the Fever ace as she drove to the basket.
A livid Reese wanted to be restrained by teammates after shifting to confront Clark following the incident. Clark turned and walked to the opposite finish of the court docket as Reese gesticulated.
The Indianapolis Star reported on Sunday that the WNBA’s investigation was trying into allegations of racist abuse in opposition to Reese by sections of Indiana’s dwelling crowd.
“The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all types – they haven’t any place in our league or in society,” the WNBA assertion mentioned. “We’re conscious of the allegations and are trying into the matter.”
Indiana mentioned the group was aiding the WNBA in its investigation.
“We’re working carefully with the WNBA to finish their investigation,” the group mentioned. “We stand agency in our dedication to offering a secure setting for all WNBA gamers.”
The newest allegations echoed incidents final season when Indiana followers have been accused of racially abusing a few of Clark’s WNBA rivals.
Clark spoke out in opposition to the problem on the finish of the season, describing followers who racially abused WNBA gamers as “trolls.”
“No person in our league ought to be dealing with any type of racism, hurtful, disrespectful, hateful feedback and threats,” Clark mentioned. “These aren’t followers, these are trolls, and it’s an actual disservice to the individuals in our league, the group the WNBA.”