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2d ago

Clark-Reese Rivalry Fuels Record WNBA Viewership Amid Hate-Speech Investigation

The WNBA is investigating allegations of racist fan comments during the Fever's season-opening blowout win over the Sky, as players and analysts weigh in on the rivalry's cultural impact.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) passes around Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) on Saturday, May 17, 2025, during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Indiana Fever defeated the Chicago Sky, 93-58. (© Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
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Overview

  • The WNBA has launched a formal investigation into allegations of racist comments directed at Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during the May 17 season opener against the Indiana Fever.
  • Fever guard Caitlin Clark, along with teammates Aliyah Boston and DeWanna Bonner, publicly condemned hate speech and voiced support for the league's investigation.
  • The game, which saw Clark post a triple-double and Reese dominate on the boards, attracted a record 2.5 million average viewers, peaking at 3.1 million—the most-watched WNBA game ever on ESPN.
  • Social media speculation and a public feud between analysts Ryan Clark and Robert Griffin III over the incident have intensified discussions about race, gender, and athlete conduct in sports.
  • No conclusive evidence of racist fan behavior has been confirmed yet, but the investigation remains ongoing, with both teams and league officials committed to addressing the allegations.