Storm apologize after co-owner confronts fans for Cunningham support

The Seattle Storm issued a formal apology on Wednesday following an incident at Climate Pledge Arena. During Tuesday night's game against the Indiana Fever, a co-owner of the Seattle franchise confronted two fans who were in attendance to support Indiana guard Sophie Cunningham.

The fans had participated in a demonstration outside the arena earlier that evening. The group gathered to express support for Cunningham and to promote a state ballot initiative, IL26-638, which seeks to prohibit transgender students from participating in female athletics programs in Washington schools. Cunningham recently voiced public support for such restrictions in an interview.

Reports indicate that Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton allegedly directed profanity at the two fans while they were sitting courtside. This altercation occurred during a game that the Storm lost 105-95 to the Fever.

Majority owner Ginny Gilder addressed the situation in a written statement. She acknowledged that the interaction occurred and offered an apology on behalf of the organization. Gilder stated that the team remains dedicated to maintaining an inclusive environment where all fans receive respectful treatment.

Indiana Fever representatives stated that neither the organization nor Cunningham had any prior knowledge of the demonstration or the organizers involved. Fever staff intervened when the media attempted to ask players about the protest following the game, noting that their primary focus remains on competition.