The WNBA is facing criticism after a since-deleted social media video appeared to show players Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers discussing a $400 bet between them. The league acknowledged the post "missed the mark" and stated it was intended to be lighthearted, but the incident has reignited discussions about gambling policies and perceived double standards within the league.
The controversy began when the WNBA's social media team shared a video featuring Reese of the Atlanta Dream and Bueckers of the Dallas Wings ahead of their recent matchup. Following the Dream's narrow 82-81 victory, Reese downplayed the wager when questioned by reporters, stating, "Yeah, I’ll be requesting my Apple Pay after this." The league subsequently removed the video and issued a statement on Thursday.
"While the social media post was intended to be lighthearted, WNBA players are well aware of the league's policies prohibiting betting on WNBA games and receive training every year reinforcing those policies," the statement read. "We recognized that the post missed the mark, removed it shortly after it was published, and addressed the matter internally. We will also use this as an opportunity to reemphasize with the players involved that conversations about wagering on WNBA games, even when intended as a joke, can have negative consequences."
Critics have questioned whether a similar exchange would have been handled the same way if it involved other prominent players, such as Caitlin Clark. Concerns were raised about whether media and the league would apply the same scrutiny to different player pairings, suggesting a potential double standard in how infractions or controversial comments are treated depending on the player involved.
According to Section 5(c) of the WNBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement, players are prohibited from placing any wagers, directly or indirectly, on WNBA games. Violations can result in penalties ranging from fines and suspensions to permanent bans, as determined by the commissioner, to uphold the integrity of the league. The WNBA's statement indicated no disciplinary action would be taken against Reese or Bueckers for this incident.