NEW YORK — The WNBA says it cannot substantiate claims that racist fan behavior took place during a game in Indianapolis between the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever earlier this month.
The league said its investigation included gathering information from fans, team and arena staff, as well as an ''audio and video review of the game.''
''We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate," Chicago Sky CEO and President Adam Fox said in a statement. "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 WNBA, according to a person familiar with the investigation, was looking into claims that racist comments were directed toward Chicago's Angel Reese by fans during the loss to WNBA rookie of the year Caitlin Clark and the Fever. Indiana won the game handily, 93-58.
Reese brushed aside questions about the investigation before Tuesday night's game against the Phoenix Mercury, saying she was ''focused on the game today'' and more concerned about helping the Sky earn their first win of the season after an 0-3 start.
First-year coach Tyler Marsh echoed his star forward's feelings.
''We appreciate the investigation being done and we hope that the league continues to make the steps necessary moving forward to ensure a safe environment for everyone, all players included,'' Marsh said. ''But tonight, the focus is on the game.''
Reese, who is Black, and Clark, who is white, were meeting for the seventh time in their ongoing — and much-talked-about — rivalry. Clark later said she did not hear any racist remarks during that game, but acknowledged that it was loud in Indiana's arena throughout the game.
