Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier spoke out on the escalating negativity aimed at WNBA players, particularly Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Addressing the issue on Thursday, Collier highlighted how hostility among fans is affecting the league’s atmosphere and the players themselves.
Concerns Raised Over Increasing Hostility in the WNBA
Collier expressed deep frustration over the intense toxicity she is witnessing, saying, “It’s getting so toxic.” She pointed out that the negativity is not isolated to specific players but affects many within the league.
“I feel like in our league, with a lot of the fans going back and forth… basketball is supposed to be so unifying, and it is so toxic. Like every game, it’s just like hatred out there towards other players, and not just like Angel and Caitlin,”
she said.
The Lynx star continued by emphasizing how widespread the problem is, noting the harmful and hateful comments on social media.
“But it’s with everyone, and people are just so nasty on there. And it’s like, we’re playing a game, and you are saying hateful things about players… I feel like we’re trending in a really bad spot with that,”
Collier stated.
Her remarks come in the wake of a WNBA investigation launched in May following allegations that Angel Reese received abusive comments during a game against the Indiana Fever. Although Collier did not single out particular spectators, she made it clear that the rising wave of hostility around the league is a serious concern.
Lexie Hull Takes a Lighthearted Jab at Caitlin Clark During Cup Tic-Tac-Toe
While off-court tensions and toxicity build, not all interactions among players are somber. Rookie of the Year Lexie Hull recently playfully mocked WNBA star Caitlin Clark in a light competition of cup tic-tac-toe. Despite Clark’s reputation for clutch three-point shooting, she struggled in this unconventional challenge.
During a best-of-three cup tic-tac-toe duel, Hull confidently predicted victory and swiftly dominated the match. Even after allowing Clark the advantage of playing with the red cups and a second chance in a round, Hull prevented Clark from scoring a single cup. After sweeping Clark in the challenge, Hull jokingly posted on Instagram, “I needed better competition.” Clark acknowledged the loss by admitting, “Not my best showing.”
This playful exchange shows that while rivalries and competition continue on and off the court, the personal banter can still be good-natured, contrasting with the troubling negativity highlighted by Collier.
The Impact of Growing Toxicity in Women’s Basketball
The warnings from Napheesa Collier underline a disturbing trend of divisiveness among WNBA fans, which threatens the welcoming and supportive environment the league has worked hard to foster. As the league investigates incidents of abusive behavior like those directed at Angel Reese, the voices of players calling out this toxicity are crucial for change.
The situation’s significance lies not only in protecting athletes from harmful remarks but also in preserving the integrity and unity of women’s basketball as a whole. Moving forward, both players and the league are expected to push for stricter measures against online abuse and promote respect among fans, ensuring the sport remains a positive space for competitors and supporters alike.