Hilton Grand Vacations terminated an employee accused of sending a racial slur to Las Vegas Aces star Chelsea Gray, the company announced Tuesday.
"The person responsible for posting this information is no longer with the company," Hilton Grand Vacations stated. "His behavior was in violation of multiple company policies and does not reflect our company's values in any way."
Gray shared a screenshot on social media showing an alleged Instagram direct message containing a racial slur directed at her. The message was reportedly sent after her team's loss to Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on Sunday. Gray, who posted the screenshot, wrote, "People act like we just make this s--- up. And the audacity to tell us as athletes to 'shut up and dribble.'"
The Indiana Fever defeated the Las Vegas Aces 109-75 in the game. Clark scored 12 points, had seven rebounds, and six assists. This game occurred amidst increased scrutiny and public discourse surrounding player conduct and racial undertones in the WNBA.
Earlier in June, Clark was struck in the throat by Phoenix Mercury player Alyssa Thomas. Following that incident, Thomas and her teammates reported receiving racial insults and threats. The physical nature of play in the WNBA has drawn attention, with some lawmakers expressing concern.
Last week, 11 Republican lawmakers sent a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. They alleged that Clark faces racially motivated hostility and expressed concern that the "physical hostility" and "violence" she encounters may also have racial motivations. The letter cited instances where Clark was allegedly "hip-checked, poked in the eye, and struck in the throat," stating that these incidents "go far beyond routine physical play."