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Caitlin Clark has addressed the racist insults reportedly directed at Angel Reese by some Indiana Fever fans during their recent game against the Chicago Sky.
The alleged incident took place in the third quarter of the Fever’s dominant 93–58 victory last weekend, prompting the WNBA to begin an official investigation. Multiple players and officials from across the league have spoken out against the behavior — Clark included.
During Monday’s practice, the 23-year-old Fever guard responded to a question from a reporter about the league’s inquiry.
“There’s absolutely no place for that in our sport or in society as a whole,” Clark said, as quoted by ESPN. “Everyone — whether they’re on the court or in the stands — should feel welcomed and respected in our arena. I’m grateful that the league is looking into this and that our organization is taking it seriously.”
According to outlets including ESPN and The Indianapolis Star, the verbal abuse was reportedly heard after a tense moment between Clark and Reese. During the third quarter, Clark committed a hard foul as Reese attempted a basket — Clark’s left hand appeared to push Reese from behind while her right arm struck her shooting hand. Reese fell to the court, and the situation sparked a brief altercation, resulting in technical fouls for both players.
After the game, both athletes appeared to downplay the incident. Clark described it as a regular “basketball play,” and Reese stated that the officials made the correct call, urging fans and media alike to move past the incident.
However, in the wake of reports that fans shouted racist slurs at Reese following the altercation, the WNBA issued a statement strongly condemning the behavior and confirming that an investigation is underway.
“The WNBA has zero tolerance for racism, hate, or discrimination of any kind — these actions are unacceptable in our league or anywhere in society,” the league said. “We are aware of the accusations and are actively investigating.”
This incident marks another chapter in the long-standing rivalry between Clark and Reese, which began during their collegiate careers and has frequently sparked widespread discussion. While their matchups often bring intensity, both players have reiterated that their rivalry remains strictly competitive.
Reese, 23, has previously clarified that there is no personal animosity between her and Clark. “People think we don’t like each other, but that’s not true,” she said last season. “When we’re off the court, we’re cool. If I see her out somewhere, I’ll say, ‘Hey girl, let’s hang out.’ It’s just about being competitive in the game.”
The two teams are set to meet again on June 7 in Chicago.