WNBA unable to substantiate reports of racist fan behavior at Gainbridge Fieldhouse

INDIANAPOLIS - The WNBA has not been able to substantiate reports of fans displaying racist behavior during the Indiana Fever's regular season-opener on May 17.




In a statement, the WNBA confirmed that it investigated reports that indicated fans exhibited racist behavior during the Fever's 93-58 win over the Chicago Sky at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The league reported that it could not substantiate the claims after conducting an audio and video review of the game and gathering information from fans and arena staff.




"We have investigated the report of racist fan behavior in the vicinity of the court during the May 17, 2025, Chicago Sky at Indiana Fever game. Based on information gathered to date, including from relevant fans, team and arena staff, as well as audio and video review of the game, we have not substantiated it.




"The WNBA is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone and will continue to be vigilant in enforcing our fan code of conduct."




Per a story from the Associated Press, on May 18, the WNBA began investigating reports that indicated racist comments were directed at Sky forward Angel Reese during the Fever's season-opener.




In its report, the AP did not indicate who drew attention to the fans' alleged behavior. The AP also indicated that an anonymous source identified Reese as the player the alleged behavior was directed at.




At the time, the WNBA released the following statement of the fans' alleged actions:




"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."




After the WNBA announced that it had not substantiated the reports of racist fan behavior, Pacers Sports and Entertainment CEO Mel Raines released the following statement:




"We appreciate the swift and thorough process undertaken by the WNBA to investigate these allegations, which were not substantiated. At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, we are committed to providing the best possible basketball experience for players and fans where hate speech has absolutely no place. Indiana is home to the world's greatest fans, and we look forward to an exciting season of Fever basketball."  




Per the AP's report, the WNBA launched a "No Space for Hate" campaign this season. The AP indicated that the campaign involves a "multi-dimensional platform designed to combat hate and promote respect across all WNBA spaces both online and in-arena."




According to the AP, the WNBA's initiative focuses on four key areas:

1. Enhanced technological features to detect hateful comments online





2. Increased emphasis on team, arena and league security measures





3. Reinforcing mental health resources





4. Alignment of core against hate

When the WNBA announced it was investigating a report of racist fan behavior that occurred during the Fever's season-opener, the league's players union released this statement:




"The WNBPA is aware of reports of hateful comments at yesterday's game in Indianapolis and supports the WNBA's current investigation into this matter. 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."




The Fever and Sky are slated to play each other four more times this season, including a matchup at the United Center in Chicago on June 7.




Fever point guard Caitlin Clark and Reese have been considered rivals by women's basketball fans since 2023, when Reese's LSU Tigers defeated Clark's Iowa Hawkeyes in the NCAA national championship game.




Clark and Reese were both draft into the WNBA after the 2024 women's college basketball season. Clark was picked first, and Reese was selected seventh.




The Fever will play their next game on Wednesday in Baltimore. They'll take on the Mystics at 7:30 p.m. at CFG Arena.




Indiana will be without Clark, who is currently sidelined with a quadricep injury.





via: https://fox59.com/news/wnba-unable-to-substantiate-reports-of-racist-fan-behavior-at-gainbridge-fieldhouse/