WNBA players union criticizes commissioner for comments on social media hate

The WNBA's player union isn't happy with commissioner Cathy Engelbert for not denouncing sexism and racism directed toward players during a recent interview.

A statement from WNBPA executive director Nneka Ogwumike begins: "Here is the answer that the Commission should have provided to the very clear question regarding the racism, misogyny, and harassment experienced by the Players:

"There is no place in sport − or in life − for the vile hate, racist language, homophobic comments, and misogynistic attacks our players are facing on social media."

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Engelbert appeared on CNBC this week, and responded to a question about social media hate by noting that the more discussion of the WNBA online drives interest and helps rivalries develop.

She said so much discussion of the Indiana Fever 's Caitlin Clark and the Chicago Sky's Angel Reese is reminiscent of the rivalry between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird in the 1980s NBA. Both Clark and Reese have faced online harassment this season.

"This is not about rivalries or iconic personalities fueling a business model," Ogwumike countered. "This kind of toxic fandom should never be tolerated or left unchecked. It demands immediate action, and frankly, should have been addressed long ago."

Ogwumike said she's ecstatic about the WNBA's rising interest that includes a long-term media rights deal.

"I can say that we wholeheartedly welcome the rising interest in the WNBA over the past few years, particularly the surge in fandom sparked by this electrifying rookie class, led by Angel and Caitlin," she said.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: WNBA players union criticizes commissioner for comments on social media hate