No evidence - WNBA concludes investigation over alleged racial slurs aimed at Angel Reese during Fever game
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Photo Credits: Getty

No evidence - WNBA concludes investigation over alleged racial slurs aimed at Angel Reese during Fever game

David Ben 12:49 - 28.05.2025

The WNBA says it found no proof of racist abuse aimed at Angel Reese during the Fever game.

The WNBA has officially concluded its investigation into allegations that racial slurs were directed at Chicago Sky star Angel Reese during a game against the Indiana Fever earlier this month. 

According to a formal statement released by the league on Tuesday, no evidence was found to substantiate the claims.

The investigation stemmed from concerns raised following the Fever’s dominant 93–58 win over the Sky — a game that intensified the bitter rivalry between Reese and Caitlin Clark

What happened?

Angel Reese
Angel Reese | Credit: Getty

It was alleged that during the high-stakes matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, racist remarks were hurled at Reese from the crowd.

 The claims, which quickly caught fire on social media, led to demands for swift action from both fans and the players’ union.

But after interviewing fans, team officials, and arena staff, as well as conducting a full audio and video review, the WNBA said it “could not substantiate that any such behaviour occurred,” as reported by The Guardian.

Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever react to WNBA’s verdict

Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese | Credit: Getty

WNBA’s investigation have stirred mixed reactions across the basketball world. Chicago Sky CEO Adam Fox expressed appreciation for the league’s prompt handling of the situation.

 “This process demonstrates the league’s strong stance on stopping hate at all WNBA games and events,” he said as per The Guardian.

Yet the conclusion has left some feeling unsettled, especially given the league’s heightened visibility and cultural significance in a year marked by a new generation of rising stars.

Reese, often referred to as “The Bayou Barbie,” has shouldered immense public attention since her collegiate rivalry with Clark transitioned into the professional arena. 

When asked about the probe on Tuesday night, Reese declined to delve into specifics, maintaining her focus on the Sky’s matchup against the Phoenix Mercury. 

Angel Reese
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese | Imago

“I’m focused on the game today,” she said, brushing off follow-up questions about the investigation.

Chicago coach Tyler Marsh echoed her sentiment: “We appreciate the investigation being done… but tonight, the focus is on the game.”

Notably, Clark herself denied hearing any racial slurs, citing the overwhelming crowd noise during the game.

WNBA star Caitlin Clark | IMAGO

“That doesn’t mean nothing happened,” she said, backing the need for a thorough investigation.

The rivalry between Reese and Clark has become a hot topic for commentary around race, media bias, and visibility in women’s sport.

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