The WNBA announced on Tuesday that its investigation found no evidence to support claims of “racist fan behavior” at a recent matchup between the Chicago Sky and the Indiana Fever in Indianapolis.
This update comes nine days after the league launched a probe into accusations that Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese had been subjected to “hateful fan comments” during the game.
“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,” the WNBA said in a statement.
“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.”
Here is Dave Portnoy making Monkey sounds towards Angel Reese. @WNBAComms @WNBA I better see a statement banning Portnoy from all WNBA arenas and facilities with your fake ass campaign against hate https://t.co/LN5ijlplrc
— SkyTown FansHQ (@SkyFanshq) May 17, 2025
“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.”
The investigation began after some viewers claimed they could hear “monkey sounds” from the Indiana Fever fans.
WNBA to Investigate Allegations of Racism by Fans at Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever Game After Dust-Up Between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese
The claims followed fierce clashes between Reese and Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark in which the latter ultimately came out on top.
The pair’s rivalry stretches back to their college days, when Reese’s LSU took the upper hand in 2023 by defeating Clark’s Iowa in the national title game.
Clark responded a year later, leading Iowa past LSU in the 2024 Elite Eight in a matchup that drew over 12 million viewers.
Their paths have since crossed again in the WNBA, where the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky have built their own fierce rivalry.
In their most recent meeting, Clark was called for a flagrant foul after a forceful challenge on Reese, as the Fever cruised to an easy victory.
Caitlin Clark received a flagrant foul on this play.
Aliyah Boston and Angel Reese received offsetting technical fouls. pic.twitter.com/jzQYEW92TW
— ESPN (@espn) May 17, 2025
Read the full article here