INDIANAPOLIS – Following Monday’s practice, Indiana Fever players addressed the WNBA’s investigation into allegations of “hateful fan comments” directed at Chicago Sky player Angel Reese during the season-opening game between the two teams on Saturday.
Although no Fever players said they heard anything specific from the crowd that filled the stadium in Indiana’s 93-58 victory, they did understand the need for investigation.
There is no place for that in our game, there is no place for that in society.
Caitlin Clark, Fever player
Clark added that the team seeks to ensure a great experience for all attendees, both players and fans. He also thanked the league and the Fever organization for taking the initiative in the investigation.
Social media posts during Saturday’s game mentioned offensive comments or noises directed at Reese after an incident in the third quarter between her and Clark. Clark fouled Reese to prevent an open layup attempt. Reese protested the foul and tried to confront Clark, but Indiana’s Aliyah Boston intervened to separate them.
Clark’s foul was ruled a flagrant 1, and both Reese and Boston received technical fouls. Boston was surprised to learn after the game that she had received a technical despite being the player who quickly calmed the situation.
On Monday, Boston emphasized the importance of players continuing to reiterate the message that fans should maintain decorum while enjoying the game.
No hate of any kind is welcome here.
Aliyah Boston, Fever player
Boston added that athletes should ensure that fans know it’s okay to be passionate and cheer, but that at the end of the day, it’s about respect. She urged fans to consider how they would treat their own daughters on the court, promoting that same respect.
DeWanna Bonner, in her 16th season in the WNBA but her first with the Fever, said the team briefly discussed the situation and that everyone is on the same page.
We keep encouraging each other and talking about these things when necessary. That’s not what we stand for as players, nor what the Indiana Fever organization stands for. Zero tolerance.
DeWanna Bonner, Fever player
Bonner concluded that, while they seek a challenging environment for opposing teams, they also want an environment where everyone can enjoy the game.
The Fever’s next game is on Tuesday against the Atlanta Dream at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
