Breanna Stewart Makes Strong WNBA Claim After Wife Receives Threatening Message

Breanna Stewart broke her silence on Tuesday regarding the troubling email her wife received amid the New York Liberty's best-of-five finals against the Minnesota Lynx.

Marta Xargay Casademont, a former professional basketball player, went to police officers in Brooklyn to report the homophobic email, including a death threat, that she received.

Stewart said Casademont received the anonymous message after the Liberty lost to the Lynx in Game 1.

In an interview with ESPN , the 30-year-old Stewart acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and maintained that their safety should always be a priority for the WNBA.

"Sometimes, people are taking things a little bit too far, too out of context, and Marta had gotten homophobic death threats," the Liberty star said.

"A few other things have happened but (we're) making sure that we're doing as much as possible to continue to make sure that our team and the league are aware of the situation and keep everybody safe."

The WNBA has continually battled against homophobia, racism, misogyny and other hateful rhetoric. Many players have been verbally harassed by fans, especially the stars who have gained wider attention because of the league's surge in popularity.

In September 2024, the WNBA issued a statement to condemn "racist, derogatory or threatening comments." Yet the problem reared its ugly head anew for Stewart and her wife.

The two-time Finals MVP, however, made a strong claim about the WNBA amid the issue. She believes that the league is being targeted because of the inclusivity it promotes.

"I think what we say to one another inside this league is kind of, 'Why is this happening?'" said Stewart. "Because we are the most inclusive league in all of professional sports, and I can say that with confidence."

She also reminded everyone that hate, homophobia and racism are "unacceptable."

"We want to continue to make sure that not only am I using this platform to make sure that we're keeping it consistent and really putting the pressure on the league to keep us safe," added the two-time champion.

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