Angel Reese Speaks Out on WNBA Investigation into Hateful Comments: «There’s No Place for This»
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese has publicly addressed the WNBA’s investigation into alleged «hateful speech» directed at her during her team’s season-opening game against the Indiana Fever. A visibly affected but resolute Reese stated that «there’s no place in this league for that,» emphasizing the need for an environment of respect for all players.
The incident reportedly occurred during an intense Sky-Fever matchup, a highly anticipated game that also saw Reese and Caitlin Clark get into a bit of a scuffle following a flagrant foul by Clark. However, the on-court rivalry was marred by allegations of insensitive comments made by a fan towards Reese. The league officially announced its investigation into these allegations last Sunday.
In her first public comments on the matter, Reese expressed gratitude for the support she has received. «Obviously, there’s no place in this league for that,» she affirmed. «I think the WNBA, our team and our organization has done a great job supporting me. I’ve had communication with everyone, from so many people across the league being able to support me. Going through this process, obviously if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone. I think they’ve done a great job supporting us in this.»
The Sky player also addressed how she felt after hearing the comments during the game. «It’s tough, but I have a great support system,» Reese said. «I’m loved by so many people. Obviously, in the moment, it’s hard to hear. My support system is great. God has protected me in so many ways. I’ve gone through so many different things the past couple of years in my life. Just having this support and this love, and being part of an organization that really supports me and loves me. It’s something that I just couldn’t imagine not being a part of.»
Reese underscored the importance of the WNBA handling the incident in a timely manner, aiming for players to feel safe and respected every night. «Like I said, they understand that this is the priority,» she reiterated. «Obviously, there’s no place for this. … The women in this league, they know that there’s no space for that. I believe every player in this league deserves to be treated with respect and to come to work and have fun and have a great environment to work at. I think they’ve done a good job putting that out.»
During Reese’s media availability, a member of the Sky’s media relations staff shut down three additional questions about the hateful comments and whether it was the first time Reese had been subjected to such remarks during a game.
Notably, Caitlin Clark, despite her on-court skirmish with Reese, had already come out in support of her rival in this instance. «There’s no place for that in our game,» Clark said. «There’s no place for that in society.»