WNBA launches investigation into racist comments toward Angel Reese after Caitlin Clark foul

On Sunday, the WNBA released a statement condemning “racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms” after a heated matchup between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky. The WNBA is reportedly investigating allegations of Fever fans making racially insensitive comments toward Sky players.

Specifically, Fever fans allegedly made racist comments toward Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese after Fever star Caitlin Clark‘s foul on her was upgraded to a Flagrant 1 in the third quarter. Boos could be loudly heard on the broadcast while Reese shot her subsequent free throws.

Of course, that’s to be expected for an opposing player. However, the WNBA is examining if there was excessive, racially insensitive behavior from fans. The Indiana Fever is cooperating with the WNBA’s investigation.

“We are aware of the allegations of inappropriate fan conduct during yesterday’s game and we are working closely with the WNBA to complete their investigation,” CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment Mel Raines said in a statement. “We stand firm in our commitment to providing a safe environment for all WNBA players.”

The season-opening win a blowout 93-58 victory for the Fever. In the win, Clark erupted for 20 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, connecting on 4-of-her-8 attempts from beyond the arc.

Reese led the charge for the Sky, recording 12 points and 17 rebounds, but only shooting 5-14 from the field. Reese took exception to Clark’s Flagrant 1, charging toward the Fever star after the play. Alas, Clark’s teammate, Aliyah Boston, broke up the scuffle before it could escalate any further.

Reese and Boston were each assessed technical fouls. Despite Reese’s initial reaction to the foul, she downplayed the intense exchange after the game.

“Basketball play,” Reese said. “Refs got it right. Move on.”

Reese wasn’t the only one who minimized the Flagrant 1 foul. After the win, Clark emphasized there was nothing extra behind the foul.

“It’s just a good take foul,” Clark said. “Either Angel gets a wide open two points or we send them to the free throw line. Nothing malicious about it. It’s just a good take foul. Every basketball player knows that.”

This isn’t the first time that the WNBA has taken measures to ensure its players feel safe. The WNBA introduced a “No Space for Hate” initiative ahead of the 2025 season, which was in response to multiple reports of hateful fan comments throughout 2024.

“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,” the WNBA players’ union said in a statement. “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.”