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The recent incident involving Connecticut Sun player DiJonai Carrington has shed light on the toxic player messaging that has been plaguing the WNBA. Following the team’s sixth straight playoff appearance, Carrington received a threatening email that included racial insults and detailed death and sexual assault threats. This disturbing incident prompted the WNBA to issue a statement denouncing internet bullying and reaffirming its commitment to protecting players from harassment.
In the statement released on Wednesday night, the league made it clear that racist, derogatory, or threatening comments towards players, teams, and league personnel would not be tolerated. The league’s security team is actively monitoring threat-related activities and will work closely with clubs and stadiums to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of all involved. This includes contacting law enforcement authorities when needed.
Despite the upsetting nature of the incident, Carrington did not address the situation after the team’s victory over the Indiana Fever. However, her teammate Alyssa Thomas spoke out about the growing animosity that has been directed towards WNBA players this season, particularly from the Indiana Fever fan base. With the emergence of young stars like Fever rookie Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese, the attention on the league has increased. Unfortunately, this increased visibility has also brought with it a wave of ugliness in the form of harassment and abuse.
Thomas described the racist insults and abuse that she and other players have faced online, highlighting the need for action to be taken against those responsible. Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides also addressed the issue, expressing the hurtful and hateful speech that her team has endured throughout the season. Fever forward Aliyah Boston even went so far as to deactivate her social media accounts to protect herself from further criticism.
Sun coach Steph White lamented the impact that internet trolls have had on the narrative surrounding the league, calling for a focus on the game rather than the negativity. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark has been the target of abuse from fans who have used her name to spread hateful messages. In one particularly disturbing incident, a fan wished for her to succumb to her health struggles, referencing her previous battle with a spinal cord tumor.
Clark’s on-court rival, Diamond DeShields of the Indiana Fever, also faced backlash from fans following a game against Clark. The incident prompted DeShields to call out the abusive behavior and emphasize the need for respect within the league. Similarly, Angel Reese received abusive texts from fans who were displeased with her performance, blaming her association with Clark for the harassment.
In light of these troubling developments, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has come under scrutiny for her handling of the league’s ongoing issues with online harassment. During an appearance on CNBC’s “Power Lunch,” she was questioned about the frightening online chats that have been directed towards players. While Engelbert initially praised the rivalries that have helped elevate the league’s profile, she later apologized for her comments after facing backlash from players.
Moving forward, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the toxic player messaging that has become a pervasive issue within the WNBA. The league must continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of its players and take a stand against all forms of harassment and abuse. By working together with clubs, stadiums, and law enforcement, the WNBA can send a strong message that this behavior will not be tolerated. Only then can the league truly thrive and provide a safe and welcoming environment for its players and fans alike.
