The WNBA made the proactive move to conduct an investigation after an alleged racist incident occurred during a game between Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky.
In the event in question, Fever fans used hate speech toward Reese. The WNBA shared the findings of its investigation on Tuesday.
“NEW YORK, May 27, 2025 – The WNBA today issued the following statement regarding Chicago Sky at Indiana Fever game on May 17, 2025:
“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.”
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy had a rather strong response to the league’s findings.
“Maybe wait next time before creating a racial war based on angry tik toks from Chicago Sky/Angel trolls who weren’t even at the game. Honestly one of the worst mismanagements of Pr I’ve ever seen.”
Fans reacted to Portnoy’s take on social media.
“I’ve never seen this kind of sports league suicide in my life. They not only allow Clark to be bullied and constantly attacked on the court, but now they go so far as to go after fans based on a Juicy Smollett level allegation. Everyone has their iPhones out at games. There are boom mikes everywhere. And it takes them days to state the obvious?” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“Of course, not a single apology from the WNBA, Reece, or the Chicago team. It was obviously all made up. It was likely even planned out to start a race [expletive] that first Indiana/Chicago game,” another fan added.
“It’s the WNBA.. I wouldn’t expect much from them. This is the first time in history they’re even somewhat relevant and they still choose to crap on their golden goose,” added someone else.
Portnoy’s response isn’t very surprising, as he’s been a vocal Clark supporter since her days as an Iowa Hawkeye.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.