WNBA Finds No Evidence of Racist Abuse Toward Angel Reese Amid Intensifying Rivalry with Caitlin Clark

The WNBA has concluded its investigation into allegations of racist abuse directed at Chicago Sky star Angel Reese during a heated matchup against the Indiana Fever, announcing that no evidence could be found to support the claims.

The league’s inquiry, launched after reports surfaced of racist slurs being hurled from the stands in Indianapolis earlier this month, was thorough. Officials gathered statements from fans, team and arena staff, and pored over audio and video footage of the game. Despite the scrutiny, the WNBA said it could not substantiate the allegations.

“We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate,” said Chicago Sky CEO and president Adam Fox. “This process demonstrates the league’s strong stance on stopping hate at all WNBA games and events, and we will continue to support those efforts.”

The game in question was already under the spotlight, featuring the ongoing rivalry between Angel Reese and Indiana’s Caitlin Clark—a storyline that has captivated fans since their college days. The Fever dominated the Sky 93-58, but the contest was marked by a flagrant-1 foul called on Clark after a hard play involving Reese, leading to a brief confrontation between the two stars.

Their rivalry, now a centerpiece of the WNBA season, has unfortunately attracted not only passionate fan interest but also a wave of online racism and misogyny. While Clark, who is white, said she did not hear any racist remarks during the game, she acknowledged the arena’s intense atmosphere. “It’s super loud in here, and though I didn’t hear anything, I think that’s why they’re doing the investigation,” Clark told reporters. “That doesn’t mean nothing happened, so I’ll just trust the league’s investigation, and I’m sure they’ll do the right thing.”

Reese, for her part, chose to focus on basketball ahead of the Sky’s next matchup, brushing off questions about the investigation. “I’m focused on the game today,” she said, emphasizing her determination to help Chicago secure its first win of the season.

Chicago coach Tyler Marsh echoed Reese’s sentiments, expressing appreciation for the league’s efforts to ensure a safe environment for all players but reiterating that, for now, the team’s attention was on the court.

Both franchises and the WNBA Players Association had previously voiced support for the investigation. After the league’s findings were released, Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to a respectful and inclusive atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “Hate speech has absolutely no place,” Raines stated. “Indiana is home to the world’s greatest fans, and we look forward to an exciting season of Fever basketball.”

When asked if she had provided details to the WNBA regarding the alleged incident, Reese declined to offer specifics but noted the outpouring of support she had received from across the league. “If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone,” she said. “There’s no place in this league for that.”

As the WNBA season continues, the Reese-Clark rivalry remains a focal point—one that reflects not just the fierce competition on the court, but also the broader conversations about race, respect, and equality in sports. The league’s investigation may be closed, but the dialogue it sparked is far from over.