**WNBA Investigation Clears Fans of Racial Allegations Against Angel Reese**
U.S. Senator Jim Banks of Indiana has called for the WNBA and the Indiana Fever to issue an apology to Fever fans following the league’s investigation into allegations of racial comments directed at player Angel Reese during a recent game. The investigation, which took place after a May 17 matchup between the Fever and the Chicago Sky, concluded that there was no evidence to support the claims.
In a statement, the WNBA noted, “Based on information gathered to date, including from relevant fans, team and arena staff, as well as audio and video review of the game, we have not substantiated [the report].” The league emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees and reiterated its dedication to enforcing the fan code of conduct.
Following the investigation, both the Sky and the Fever released statements, but Senator Banks believes that an apology is warranted, particularly from the Fever. He stated, “Reese accused the Indiana Fever fan base of being racists. They investigated it. They said those accusations were false. The least that she could do is apologize to our great state and the fans that show up at these games and say, ‘I’m sorry, I was wrong.’ Obviously, she’s not going to do that.”
Banks expressed disappointment over the serious nature of the allegations, asserting that the fans did not shout racial slurs at Reese or any opposing players. He questioned the lack of response from the Fever and the WNBA, stating, “Where is Caitlin Clark? Where is the Indiana Fever? Where is the WNBA saying that that investigation – there shouldn’t have been an investigation. The allegations were false. Where’s the apology? It’s disappointing.”
It remains unclear whether Reese was the one who prompted the WNBA investigation. Sky head coach Tyler Marsh mentioned that he learned about the allegations at the same time as the public. Reese has previously claimed that fans from both the Fever and Iowa have exhibited racist behavior towards her.
Senator Banks concluded, “It’s so demeaning to our state and to the fan base to go through something like that. The least they can do is apologize to the fans. That’s the kind of garbage that gets thrown around all the time.”
In response to issues of hate and discrimination, the WNBA launched the “No Space for Hate” initiative before the start of the 2025 season. This program aims to combat hate and promote respect across all WNBA platforms, featuring unified messaging during games and on social media, as well as the use of AI technology to monitor online activity.
**FAQ**
**What prompted the WNBA investigation into Angel Reese’s allegations?**
The investigation was initiated following allegations made by Angel Reese regarding racial comments directed at her by fans during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky. The WNBA found no evidence to support these claims.
