WNBA star Alyssa Thomas and head coach Stephanie White have condemned the racism and other hateful messages that players have received this season. The WNBA has also released a statement condemning the behavior and vowing to take action to protect its players.
WNBA star Alyssa Thomas and head coach Stephanie White have spoken out against the racism and other hateful messages that players have received this season.
Racism In WNBA: Sun Star Alyssa Thomas and Coach Stephanie White Speak Out
Thomas, who plays for the Connecticut Sun, said she has been called names on social media that she has never been called before. She said that there is no place for racism in basketball or in society.
"We've been professional throughout the whole entire thing, but I've never been called the things that I've been calling on social media, and there's no place for it," Thomas said. "Basketball is headed in a great direction, but no, we don't want fans that are going to degrade us and call us racial names."
Racism In WNBA: Sun Star Alyssa Thomas and Coach Stephanie White Speak Out
White, who is the head coach of the Sun, said that she is proud of the way her players have handled the situation. She said that they have shown strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
"I'm proud of my players for the way they have handled this situation," White said. "They have shown strength and resilience in the face of adversity. We will not tolerate racism or any other form of hate speech. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for our players."
Racism In WNBA: Sun Star Alyssa Thomas and Coach Stephanie White Speak Out
The WNBA has also released a statement condemning the behavior and vowing to take action to protect its players.
"The WNBA is a competitive league with some of the most elite athletes in the world," the league said. "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."
The league said that it 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.
Fans of the league have reacted on social media, saying that it was a little too late for the statement to be released. However, the league says that it is committed to addressing the issue and making sure that its players feel safe and respected.
