WNBA Players Face Unprecedented Harassment and Criticism Amid League's Increased Popularity

Increased attention on the WNBA has brought forth a surge of criticism and harassment directed towards its players, causing some to question the state of the league's fan base.

The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity this year, captivating the attention of a wider audience. However, this newfound recognition has come at a cost, with players facing unprecedented levels of criticism and harassment.

Members of the Chicago Sky, who missed out on the playoffs after finishing 10th in the 12-team league, have expressed their dismay at the outpouring of negativity they have encountered. Dana Evans, a Sky guard, admitted that the season had been particularly challenging due to the constant barrage of hateful comments.

WNBA Players Face Unprecedented Harassment and Criticism Amid League's Increased Popularity

"I'll be honest, it was tough. It was really tough," Evans said after their season finale. "We're professionals. We know that we can play this game, but when you've got people that's steady bashing you that's supposed to be our supporters, I feel like that was a little slap in the face."

Evans' teammate, Isabelle Harrison, couldn't hold back tears while discussing the "bigotry and racism" she has witnessed on social media.

WNBA Players Face Unprecedented Harassment and Criticism Amid League's Increased Popularity

"I've never experienced this much hate and harassment, this entire season," Harrison said. "I get emotional about it. … It's hard because it should have never been like that. You just want to play basketball. If it's online, it's online. But you now get tagged in it. I'm constantly having to block people, and people are just making narratives about you. It's hurtful. And it's hard to just focus on basketball."

Harrison expressed her appreciation for the new fans attracted to the WNBA but urged them to be mindful of the impact their online presence can have on players.

WNBA Players Face Unprecedented Harassment and Criticism Amid League's Increased Popularity

"I appreciate the new eyes, but if this comes with hate and bigotry and racism and even people that look like me bashing me, keep it offline because it's so hurtful, and you don't know how that affects people," Harrison said.

Sky rookie sensation Angel Reese has also been subjected to racist remarks and death threats, particularly from fans of Caitlin Clark. However, Evans noted that even Sky supporters have been overly critical of the team.

"If you're going to support the Sky, support the Sky," Evans said. "I feel like that was a big issue. It messes with your mental. I don't care how good you are or what's going on. You're gonna see stuff, you're gonna read stuff. But this, it made us better and a lot stronger up here."

Despite the negativity they have faced, the Sky players remain determined to rise above the adversity and continue their pursuit of success in the WNBA.

"We're professionals. We're going to handle it. We're going to be fine," Evans said. "We're going to stay together, and we're going to make sure we come back next year and make a great run."

The increased attention on the WNBA has undoubtedly brought about increased scrutiny. However, the league's players deserve respect and support as they strive to showcase their talent and inspire future generations of athletes. The onus is on fans to create a welcoming and positive environment where players can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination.