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The WNBA said it can’t substantiate alleged “racial comments” levied at Angel Reese during the Chicago Sky’s game against the Indiana Fever on May 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
The league released a statement Tuesday, which read, in part:
“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 announced last Sunday it would investigate allegations of racist remarks. Front Office Sports reported last Sunday that a report was filed with the league alleging the remarks were made toward the Sky, specifically toward Reese.
Minutes after the WNBA’s statement, Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines released her own statement.
“At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, we are committed to providing the best possible basketball experience for players and fans where hate speech has absolutely no place.”
Sky CEO and president Adam Fox said in a statement, “We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate. This process demonstrates the league’s strong stance on stopping hate at all WNBA games and events, and we will continue to support those efforts.”
Saturday’s game featured an altercation involving Reese and Fever star Caitlin Clark. Reese pushed Fever forward Natasha Howard in a battle for a rebound, prompting Clark to foul Reese, who fell to the ground. Reese stood up and turned toward Clark, who turned away.
Clark was called for a flagrant foul, while Reese and Indiana center Aliyah Boston both received technical fouls.
After the game, Clark dismissed her foul was “malicious.”
“Let’s not make it anything it’s not. … I wasn’t trying to do anything malicious,” Clark said. Reese seemed to agree.
“Basketball play. Refs got it right. Move on,” Reese said.
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