ESPN Drag WNBA Into Chaos As National Analyst Blows the Lid off Caitlin Clark–Angel Reese Investigation

The opening weekend of the 2025 WNBA season has been discussed more because of the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese controversy and the racism allegations against the crowd in the Gainbridge Fieldhouse than anything else. After a thorough investigation by the league, it was found that there was no evidence to substantiate claims of racist fan behavior during the May 17 game. They came to this conclusion after reviewing the audio and video of the game, as well as gathering information from fans, teams, and arena staff members.

“We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate,” Sky CEO and team president Adam Fox said in a statement. Before this, Caitlin Clark spoke against the comments that Reese apparently received. But how did this whole narrative catch fire, considering the WNBA league found nothing? The answer, in part, comes from history. Just a year ago, numerous players alleged they dealt with an increase in harassment, which included racist, misogynistic, and homophobic attacks. Indiana fans are especially known for such conduct. Knowing this past, it was not too far off that Reese could have experienced the same from Indiana’s audience. But it doesn’t end here.

ESPN’s analyst, Chiney Ogwumike, had unintentionally boosted the idea that the fans were hurling racist comments against Reese. As it came from a credible source, many believed that the audience in the arena were racist. Hence, Ogwumike apologized once the league’s statement was public. “I totally recognize that it may have impacted fans in a way that I did not intend, and I’m sorry.” However, it seems the drama has already caused the WNBA some damage. At least, that’s what analyst Rachel DeMita believes. As per her, the unnecessary investigation has produced another negative byproduct involving the media and also potentially threatening the future of the league. 

In her latest video, she said, “We saw broadcasters from every different network. We saw news reporters chiming in on it. We saw ESPN talking heads going at it. Like, it got actually insane when they started talking about this investigation. There were so many assumptions being made. People misspoke, and it really just put a damper on the WNBA in general. And like I have told you guys in previous videos, this is such a crucial year for the WNBA. They can’t afford to have this cloud of messiness over the league.”

DeMita’s frustration resonated with fans who felt the media turned a single game into a national controversy, drowning out the excitement of the season’s start. The social media was filled with hate towards Caitlin Clark because of the havoc. The media narratives spiraled, leading to some pretty scathing remarks directed at both Reese and Clark. 

The WNBA took up the investigation because of allegations from a group of people on social media. Without proof, we had people calling to move the WNBA All-Star game from Indiana. They wanted Dave Portnoy banned from games after he publicly stated he was on Clark’s side. All this happened during a very crucial time. DeMita further explained that such a scandal will do more damage to the league. “It’s such an important year. It’s the year before the CBA. This is the year to show fans and to show the world that you belong, that you’re a serious sports organization, that these women deserve to get paid more, and that you can put out a good product.”

2024 was the first time viewers beyond the core WNBA fans took the league seriously and acknowledged it. That boost in popularity further strengthened the players’ call for better salaries. It helped their cause, which has been going on for years. The current CBA lasts till 2025, and the players’ union has already opted out of it, citing the recent boom in business. 

Stars like Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark are still earning peanuts compared to the value they have brought to the league. The comparison to the NBA is unfair, and the WNBPA vice president, Napheesa Collier, has emphasized that they want their equal share of the revenue. The contract renegotiation will begin soon, and with controversies like these looming around, it creates tension among the involved parties. 

Since this wrangle, people’s view of the league has once again shifted. Many think the WNBA will never be a serious league. The incoming sponsors might also rethink their decision.

Skip Bayless warns Angel Reese after WNBA investigation results

The WNBA concluded its investigation on the racism allegations towards the Chicago Sky players, and it had no conclusive evidence of racism of any kind. After this, many of the initial reactions to the controversy have come under scrutiny, including the alleged victim, Angel Reese, herself.

“Obviously, there’s no place in this league for that,” Reese said at that time. “I think the WNBA and our team and our organization has done a great job supporting me. … Going through this whole process, if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”

Bayless was unhappy with this and has advised Reese on how to deal with such situations. “Here’s the issue facing Angel Reese: After bad losses, she sometimes publicly plays the victim. I don’t doubt she has heard some [racist comments] in arenas and read a number of racist remarks on social media.

“And as I continue to say… just don’t read [the social media comments]. You’re not obligated to read them. Don’t allow them to imprison you. You don’t have to read them. You shouldn’t read them… How often is [Angel] going to deflect blame after a tough loss onto racist comments?… Should any [racist comments on social media] be used as excuses or blame deflection after bad losses, especially to Caitlin Clark?”

Well, throughout her collegiate and professional career, Clark has spoken against racially insensitive remarks. She has repeatedly emphasized unity, respect, and growing the game for all.

So as two of the league’s most prominent stars, Clark and Reese, fight against these situations, it will be interesting to see how the rest of the season unfolds. What do you think?