This season, the WNBA received the most attention since its start in 1997. That means many more fans tuned in and were introduced to the league. That’s usually a good thing, but a center for the Phoenix Mercury, Brittney Griner, calls out a few bad apples.
She says that throughout the season, she was heckled with racial slurs by fans in the stands.
“I don’t appreciate the new fans that sit there and yell racial slurs at myself, my teammates, and the people that I play against because, yeah, those my best opponents, but those are friends too,” said Griner.
This isn’t new information, either, as the WNBA has already issued a statement about fan behavior regarding racism.
“The WNBA is a competitive league with some of the most elite athletes in the world. While we welcome a growing fan base, the WNBA will not tolerate racist, derogatory, or threatening comments made about players, teams and anyone affiliated with the league. League security is actively monitoring threat-related activity and will work directly with teams and arenas to take appropriate measures, to include involving law enforcement, as necessary,” the league wrote.
Hopefully, this issue will go away before things escalate further to keep players like Griner safe.
Brittney Griner Was An All-Star Yet Again
Brittney Griner has been one of the most consistent players in the WNBA.
Since her rookie year, she has contributed greatly to every team she has played for, and her efforts are usually rewarded.
Now, in her eleventh year in the league, she was named an All-Star for the ninth time. It’s been a testament to what she can do on the court. At 33 years old, she can now look to hit double digits next year if she continues to play.