Seattle Storm Co-owner Faces Suspension and Fine Over Incident

The WNBA has penalized Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton, imposing a fine and a suspension from the team’s next five home games. This decision follows allegations that Keaton insulted two young fans of Sophie Cunningham, calling them ‘f—ing insane’ during a match. Independent journalist Brandi Kruse was present at the arena and reported the incident to Fox News Digital.

The fans were supporting Cunningham, who plays for the Indiana Fever. She addressed the event in a social media post, stating her belief in a welcoming space for everyone regardless of gender identity. Cunningham commended the fans for their courage and criticized Keaton, labeling her behavior as embarrassing.

Storm majority owner Ginny Gilder publicly apologized, emphasizing the team’s dedication to inclusivity and respect for all fans. Gilder’s statement expressed regret over the incident and reaffirmed the team’s commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment.

Additional footage released by Fox News Digital showed the young fans involved in another argument with a spectator, which further fueled public outrage. The incident attracted attention from public figures, including ‘Harry Potter’ author J.K. Rowling, who weighed in on social media.

The game took place at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, where a rally occurred outside in support of Cunningham’s stance on women’s sports. Counterprotesters advocating for transgender inclusion also gathered, highlighting the divided opinions on the issue.

According to Kruse, who organized parts of the event, she witnessed Seattle Storm players mocking the young fans. The girls reported that Keaton approached them with offensive language. Security later confirmed that the woman accused was indeed a team co-owner.

Kruse insisted that the alleged behavior warranted action as it violated the arena’s code of conduct, which forbids abusive language. She noted that any other fan acting similarly would likely have faced ejection.

One of the fans reportedly broke down in tears after the confrontation. Kruse detailed that they had come prepared with signs in support of Cunningham, which they eventually set aside due to feeling threatened.

The Seattle Storm announced they were aware of the demonstration plans and maintained that safety and inclusivity were their top priorities. Storm head coach Sonia Raman commented on the rally, asserting that the organization had effectively worked with security to ensure safety.

The Indiana Fever, along with player Sophie Cunningham, distanced themselves from the rally. Team representatives stated that neither they nor Cunningham had knowledge or involvement with the demonstration. When questioned after the game, representatives and head coach Stephanie White focused on sports-related topics, steering away from the controversy.