Brittney Griner has called for immediate action from the WNBA to enhance player safety and combat the rising abuse faced by players, particularly in the wake of incidents involving racist and derogatory comments from fans. Following the Phoenix Mercury’s playoff exit, Griner emphasized the need for the league to move beyond delayed statements and take proactive measures, especially on social media.
She suggested implementing filters for harmful comments and highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment for all players, urging the league to uphold these standards consistently across all venues. “We all deserve to play in a safe environment,” Griner stated, underscoring the league’s responsibility to protect its players from racial and sexist abuse.
Angel Reese also weighed in on the issue, reflecting on her own experiences with media narratives that have vilified her. She expressed solidarity with fellow players facing similar abuse and called for change, emphasizing that criticism should remain within the bounds of the game itself.
Christie Sides, the Fever head coach, echoed these sentiments, condemning the personal attacks that have become prevalent among fans. She stressed the unacceptability of such behavior, asserting that players should be able to focus on their performance without enduring personal abuse.
The conversations initiated by Griner, Reese, and Sides highlight a critical need for the WNBA to prioritize player welfare and actively combat abuse, fostering a supportive and respectful community for all athletes.