The WNBA has suspended Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton for five home games and issued an undisclosed fine following an incident with two teenage fans. The confrontation occurred during a Storm-Fever game in Seattle.
The teenage fans were reportedly holding signs supporting Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham and wearing shirts against the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports. Cunningham had recently made comments in an ESPN profile advocating for the protection of young girls in sports against competition from biological males.
According to reports, Keaton allegedly called the teenagers "f--king insane" and told them "Jesus loves everyone" and "I hope Jesus can forgive you for what sin you’ve done." One of the girls stated the interaction left her in tears, saying she was surprised by the aggressive reaction as she expected Keaton to be friendly.
The Seattle Storm issued an apology the day after the incident. In a statement, majority owner Ginny Gilder emphasized the team's commitment to an inclusive environment where all fans are treated with respect.
Sophie Cunningham responded to the Storm's apology, addressing Keaton's actions. Cunningham stated on X, "I truly believe there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY. Biological girls, biological boys, trans women, and trans men. Everyone is welcome at my table! You can disagree and still be kind." She also commended the girls for "standing up for what they believe" and called Keaton's behavior "truly embarrassing."
Prior to the game, a group of fans gathered outside Climate Pledge Arena to show support for Cunningham and a Washington State ballot initiative aimed at banning transgender athletes from women's sports. Conversely, other fans inside the arena held signs advocating for the participation of transgender people in sports.