As WNBA Grows, So Does the Hate: Coaches, League Respond to Racism and Threats

WNBA "No Space for Hate" campaign launched May 15, via X(formerly know as Twitter)

The WNBA launched its No Space for Hate campaign on May 15, hoping to send a clear message that racism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination will not be tolerated in the league. But some WNBA fans are proving that a catchy slogan is not enough to calm the racist and homophobic tirade that began to escalate last season, following the arrival of Caitlin Clark.

While Clark has publicly denounced racism and hate speech, some new fans—many drawn by her record-setting college career—have instead used her emergence as a wedge, fueling divisive rhetoric and racist attacks on Black WNBA players.

Coach Lynne Roberts and Cheryl Reeve respond to the WNBA No Space for Hate campaign.

The post has received more than 500 comments, many reflecting a recurring theme that contradicts the campaign’s intended message. "Maybe go tell Angel Reese and A'ja Wilson about this post, do they EVER say anything but hate??" one commenter wrote. Another post accused Reese and Wilson of encouraging hatred toward White fans, alleging that "all the hate and abuse was directed at [Clark] and her fans.”

Other comments crossed the line entirely — veering into open hate speech. One user wrote, "Whoa whoa...the big Black lesbians can wail on Caitlin all they want. Whew. Get that straight." Comments like these aren't just troubling — they could lead to dangerous interactions with players.

On Sunday, the Chicago Sky responded to an alleged racially motivated incident during their season opener against the Fever in Indiana. Team president Adam Fox issued a statement via social media: "We welcome the WNBA's investigation of allegations of fan misconduct during our first game of the season. We will do everything in our power to protect Chicago Sky players, and we encourage the league to continue taking meaningful steps to create a safe environment for all WNBA players."

The league echoed that sentiment in a statement to the New York Post, saying: "The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society. We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter."

During the Los Angeles Sparks' home opener against the Minnesota Lynx, head coaches Lynne Roberts and Cheryl Reeve also addressed the campaign and the current climate around the league. "This is a diverse league," Roberts said. "It's a league of predominantly African American women. And we need to be a space that's safe."

Roberts believes fans should see players as people first. "These guys are competitors, and they are professionals. But they're also human beings, and moms, and there's just no place for the hate."

Reeve, one of the WNBA's longest-tenured coaches, acknowledged that racism and sexism have long existed in the league, but said this moment feels different.

"We always say sports are a microcosm of society, and that's what we got last year," she said. "Especially in the times we're in today, in our country. So, it's important that we protect our players at all costs."

As the league continues to grow in visibility and popularity, so too does the responsibility to shield its players — especially Black women and LGBTQ+ athletes — from targeted harassment. The No Space for Hate campaign is a powerful statement. But unless it’s followed by action, it risks becoming just another slogan.