The WNBA revealed on Tuesday night their findings of an investigation into claims of racist remarks directed at the Chicago Sky in their matchup last week against the Indiana Fever. According to a statement by the league, they did not find any evidence of racist behavior by any fans after reviewing audio and video from the contest, as well as speaking with attendees in the crowd after the matter. Meanwhile, ESPN WNBA analyst Chiney Ogwumike took to social media last night following the release of the findings and apologized for how her comments emerged after the initial reports of the behavior surfaced.
“If you know me, you know I’m not afraid to say I can do better. I am sorry that my message was in the heat of the moment, because when I initially spoke on the topic, it really came from a place of care,” said Ogwumike. “It was based on firsthand conversations with people very close to the situation who raised real concerns. And they told me what they had experienced. And I felt like it was important and it was necessary to acknowledge those allegations and also voice those experiences.”
Notably, Ogwumike’s comments following the reports of potential racist remarks directed at Reese and Chicago Sky players drew some criticism for jumping to conclusions during an appearance on the May 19 episode of Get Up!. The league said that while they found no evidence, they remain committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everybody and will continue to be vigilant in enforcing their fan code of conduct.
“When it comes to the racism and the hateful rhetoric and the statement that the WNBA is saying, I think it’s important,” said Ogwumike on May 19. “At the end of the day, if you’re truly a basketball fan, you would understand and agree that we have no space for those types of comments.”
In light of the investigation’s findings, the ESPN analyst acknowledged that her earlier remarks may have affected some fans in a way she didn’t intend.
“I totally recognize that it may have impacted fans in a way that I did not intend. I am sorry,” explained Ogwumike. “I am also happy that the WNBA treated the matter with the utmost seriousness, followed through with the investigation. And I understand that having a platform comes with a responsibility, and I do not take that lightly. So as our league continues to grow, I am going to grow with it. And I am so committed to be better about how I share perspectives and grow alongside the game that I truly love and adore.”
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