WNBA team Seattle Storm officially apologized for its minority partner Celeste Keaton, who cursed at two young fans during the game against the Indiana Fever. The incident occurred after the young girls held signs supporting Sophie Cunningham's statements on protecting women's sports.
Independent journalist Brandi Kruse reported that Keaton told the girls they were "crazy." Kruse also stated that some Seattle players gave the girls a thumbs-down and some fans booed them.
Storm majority partner Ginny Gilder said in a written statement, "We are aware that one of our partners made a comment to two fans during last night's game. We apologize that this happened. Everyone who comes to a Storm game deserves to feel welcome, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every fan is treated with respect."
Sophie Cunningham had previously said in an interview with ESPN, "I want to protect young girls from biological men in the locker room or in sports." Before the game, supporters of women's sports and transgender rights advocates had gathered outside the arena.
Cunningham scored 11 points in the game, which Indiana Fever won 105-95. Fever management did not allow Cunningham to answer questions after the game.
A New York Times poll conducted last year found that 79 percent of Americans do not want men playing in women's sports. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states may ban transgender athletes from participating in women's and girls' sports.