Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton has been accused of verbally berating two young women who were courtside supporting Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham. The incident occurred during a WNBA game on Tuesday night where the Indiana Fever defeated the Seattle Storm 105-95.
Cunningham recently drew criticism for her comments to ESPN, stating that women "shouldn't have to go against biological men" in sports, a stance aimed at protecting women's sports. Her remarks sparked online debate and drew both support and backlash.
The two young fans, who identified themselves as supporters of Cunningham's views, were displaying signs and wearing t-shirts from XX-XY Athletics, a brand advocating for women's sports. According to their account, Keaton approached them during the game. They stated that Keaton initially asked what they were doing, then said, "Jesus loves everyone," before adding, "I hope Jesus can forgive you for what sin you've done" and calling them "f***ing insane."
The fans, who claimed they were being respectful and not initiating conflict, expressed shock and disappointment at the interaction, particularly given Keaton's position as a team co-owner. They reported feeling distressed and that no one in the vicinity intervened on their behalf. One of the fans noted that it was disheartening to be yelled at by another woman.
Cunningham herself has faced similar controversy in the past. In 2022, she received backlash for sharing a post about transgender swimmer Lia Thomas's inclusion in women's collegiate sports. She later released a statement clarifying that she stands with athletes but advocates for fair competition. In a recent interview, Cunningham reiterated her position, stating she wants to extend love but also be honest about protecting young girls in sports from competing against biological men.
Following Tuesday's game, there was also a rally outside the arena attended by a few dozen people in support of Cunningham and to promote statewide initiatives concerning transgender student participation in girls' athletics. The Indiana Fever organization issued a statement saying they had no prior knowledge of the demonstration and that their focus is on winning games.
Neither Cunningham nor Caitlin Clark were made available to the media after the game. Fever coach Stephanie White addressed media alongside other players, but a team representative intervened when White was asked about the rally and Cunningham's comments.