The WNBA has suspended and fined Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton following comments she made to two fans during a July 28 game against the Indiana Fever. Keaton received a five-game suspension for home contests and a monetary fine for violating the league’s standards of conduct, according to individuals familiar with the decision who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The exact amount of the fine has not been disclosed.
The incident occurred when the two fans, who were courtside and holding signs supporting Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, were approached by Keaton. One sign read, “THANK YOU SOPHIE FOR SPEAKING UP FOR GIRLS.” The fans, wearing apparel from XX-XY Athletics—a brand advocating for the protection of women’s sports—later described the encounter in a video posted by podcast host Brandi Kruse. They said Keaton initially approached politely but then made remarks suggesting religious condemnation, including saying, “Jesus loves everyone,” followed by, “I hope Jesus can forgive you for what sin you’ve done.” The fans also alleged that Keaton used profane language toward them.
Ginny Gilder, majority co-owner of the Storm, acknowledged the incident in a statement, expressing regret over the interaction. “We are aware one of our co-owners made comments to two fans in attendance at last night’s game. We apologize that this happened. Everyone who attends a Storm game deserves to feel welcome, and we remain committed to creating an inclusive environment where every fan is treated with respect,” Gilder said.
The situation spotlighted ongoing debates within women’s sports communities concerning transgender participation. Fever guard Sophie Cunningham recently drew national attention after remarks in an ESPN interview where she said she aims to protect young girls in sports from “going against biological men.” Cunningham emphasized she seeks to express both love and honesty in the issue and denied harboring animosity toward transgender individuals, stating that she believes “there’s space for everyone.” After Keaton’s suspension was announced, Cunningham posted on social media, supporting the two fans and condemning Keaton’s conduct as “truly embarrassing,” while reiterating a message of kindness and inclusivity.
Prior to the game, a small rally outside Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena showed support for Cunningham and promoted a proposed Washington state initiative, IL26-638, which would prohibit transgender students from competing in girls’ sports in public schools. The Fever organization distanced itself from the demonstration. When asked about the rally, a team spokesperson said neither the team nor Cunningham had knowledge of or contact with the event organizers, emphasizing the team's focus on winning and engaging fans.
Meanwhile, members of the Seattle Storm visibly expressed solidarity with transgender rights. Veteran center Stefanie Dolson wore a shirt declaring “Trans Rights Are Human Rights” during the game, a gesture widely shared on the team’s social media channels.
This episode reflects tensions surrounding transgender participation in women’s sports, an issue increasingly present in professional athletics, and highlights the WNBA’s commitment to upholding conduct standards among ownership and participants.