Seattle Storm co-owner suspended from home games after fan confrontation

By Noah Lavoie — 30 July 2026 — 3 min read

WNBA takes action after incident

The WNBA has issued a suspension and an undisclosed fine to Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton following an incident with two teenage fans. The disciplinary action bars Keaton from attending the Storm’s next five home games. The confrontation occurred during a game between the Storm and the Indiana Fever at Climate Pledge Arena.

Reports confirmed by the WNBA indicate that Keaton allegedly confronted the fans and used profanity. One of the girls was reportedly left in tears after the exchange. The Storm’s majority owner, Ginny Gilder, issued a statement acknowledging that one of their co-owners made comments to two fans and apologized for the incident, emphasizing the team’s commitment to an inclusive environment where all fans are treated with respect.

The two girls were at the game wearing matching XX-XY Athletics shirts and carrying signs that read, “Thank you, Sophie, for speaking up for girls.” Their message referenced recent comments made by Sophie Cunningham opposing transgender women competing in women’s sports. Independent Seattle-based journalist Brandi Kruse, who was in the arena with the girls, stated that Keaton allegedly called them “f—ing insane.”

Cunningham responds to controversy

Sophie Cunningham addressed the incident on social media, condemning the alleged behaviour. She emphasized the importance of kindness, stating, “I truly believe there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY. Biological girls, biological boys, trans women, and trans men. Everyone is welcome at my table! You can disagree and still be kind.” She also praised the fans for expressing their beliefs and described the conduct attributed to Keaton as “truly embarrassing.”

The controversy extended beyond the alleged exchange with Keaton. Kruse reported that the girls faced negative reactions from other people inside the arena. Additionally, Seattle Storm center Stefanie Dolson wore a shirt before the game that read “Trans rights are human rights,” expressing support for transgender inclusion. Demonstrators representing opposing viewpoints on the issue gathered outside Climate Pledge Arena before the game.

The Indiana Fever distanced themselves and Cunningham from the demonstration, with a team representative stating that neither the organization nor Cunningham had any knowledge of the event or contact with its organizers. The representative added that the Fever remained focused on winning games and building their fan base.

Impact on the Storm and WNBA

The league’s response came swiftly after footage and accounts of the incident began circulating on social media. The Storm had previously stated they were aware of the planned demonstration and were tracking it closely, aiming to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all guests. The team’s head coach, Sonia Raman, addressed the rally after the game, noting that the organization coordinated with arena security to ensure a welcoming environment.

Despite the charged atmosphere, Cunningham contributed to the Fever‘s victory over the Storm, finishing with 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists as the Fever defeated the Storm 105-95. Cunningham was met with boos from portions of the Seattle crowd whenever she entered the game or touched the ball.

The incident highlights the ongoing debate within the WNBA regarding transgender participation and the conduct expected from team ownership. The WNBA’s punishment for Keaton underscores the expectation that all individuals, including team owners, must adhere to standards of respect and appropriate behaviour towards fans.

The Storm must now proceed with one of its owners disciplined for conduct involving spectators, while Cunningham’s social media response aimed to reinforce her position on fairness and protecting opportunities for girls and women in sports, separating disagreement from personal hostility.

According to Kruse, the girls were not forced to put down their signs in support of Cunningham but chose to do so after the alleged harassment, feeling scared and uncomfortable.

The WNBA confirmed the suspension and fine to Fox News Digital.

Source: ca.sports.yahoo.com