Ten-time All-Star Brittney Griner says the WNBA’s “new fans” crossed the line this year.
The Phoenix Mercury star opened up about the “racial slurs” she and other players heard from “new fans” during the 2024 season.
“I don’t appreciate the new fans sitting there yelling racial slurs at myself, my teammates and the people that I play for, yes they may be opponents but they are friends too,” Griner said Thursday night.
“They don’t deserve it. So I don’t appreciate the new fans who think it’s OK to do that.
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Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury against the Seattle Storm during the first quarter at Climate Pledge Arena June 24, 2023 in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
“But I appreciate the new fans who respect the game, who are here to grow our league, and bring people who may never have seen the W to a WNBA game so we can grow our fan base.”
A number of players have spoken out about the hateful comments and vitriol, and the WNBA released a statement earlier this week acknowledging the issue.
Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury looks to tackle the Seattle Storm in the first quarter at Climate Pledge Arena on June 24, 2023 in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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“The WNBA is a competitive league with some of the most elite athletes in the world. While we welcome a growing fan base, the WNBA will not tolerate racist, derogatory or threatening comments about players, teams or anyone affiliated with the league.” said the statement.
Griner was in her second season back in the league after missing the 2022 campaign while in prison in Russia.
Last year was Griner involved in an incident with a social media sensation asking her why she “hates” and “still wants[s] to boycott” America.
Brittney Griner (42) of the Phoenix Mercury throws out Angel Reese (5) of the Chicago Sky during the second half of a WNBA game on August 15, 2024 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago. (Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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The WNBA playoffs began earlier this week.
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