WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has issued an apology for failing to address the abusive words and actions from fans of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Earlier this week, Engelbert appeared on CNBC and did not properly address the racial and sexist abuse directed towards these players. Instead, she emphasized the “rivalry” between the rookies and suggested they should ignore the negativity.
After receiving backlash from players like Breanna Stewart, Engelbert apologized in a letter to the players. She acknowledged that her initial response missed the mark and expressed regret for not condemning the hateful speech directed at WNBA players on social media. She emphasized that there is no place for racism, misogyny, homophobia, or any form of hate in the league or anywhere.
“I was asked a question about WNBA rivalries and the dark side of social media and race, and simply put, my answer missed the mark, and I’m sorry.”
“I regret that I didn’t express, in a clear and definitive way, condemnation of the hateful speech that is all too often directed at WNBA players on social media. This is a teachable moment and one that I embrace with humility. There is absolutely no room for racism, misogyny, homophobia and other forms of hate in the WNBA or anywhere.”
“I know many of you have been dealing with it for a long time. I want us as a league to do our part to change the too often toxic and abusive nature of social media discourse.”
Engelbert’s apology was well-received by players like Breanna Stewart, who spoke with the commissioner following the incident. Additionally, Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) president Nneka Ogwumike also had a conversation with Engelbert to address the issue.
