Seattle Storm apologizes after co-owner confronts fans supporting Sophie Cunningham

The Seattle Storm said on Wednesday that a co-owner directed profanity at two fans during the team’s 105-95 loss to the Indiana Fever. The incident followed a small gathering outside Climate Pledge Arena where supporters of Fever guard Sophie Cunningham held signs and wore shirts referencing the XX and XY chromosomes. The demonstration promoted a state ballot initiative, IL26-638, that would prohibit transgender students from competing in girls’ athletics in Washington schools.

Cunningham had recently expressed support for the measure in an ESPN article. After the game, Storm majority owner Ginny Gilder released a statement: "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."

The team did not identify which co-owner was involved, though a report from unDividedPod.com named Celeste Keaton. The two fans, who were also seated courtside, said Keaton used expletives in response to their sign thanking Cunningham "for speaking up for girls."

Fever coach Stephanie White declined to comment on the protest, and a team public-relations statement said neither the organization nor Cunningham had prior knowledge of the demonstration. Storm coach Sonia Raman said the organization worked with arena officials and security to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees.