Seattle Storm co-owner suspended after confronting teenage fans supporting player
Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was fined and barred from the next five home games after allegedly yelling at two teenage fans who displayed signs supporting Sophie Cunningham, who opposes transgender women competing in women’s sports.
Two teenage spectators said they were approached by Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton after a game on Tuesday, where she allegedly shouted and used profanity because they were holding signs that expressed support for player Sophie Cunningham. The girls, who said they were quietly watching the match, reported that the encounter left one of them in tears.
The Storm issued a statement on Wednesday apologizing for the incident. Majority owner Ginny Gilder said the organization is committed to an inclusive environment and that “everyone who attends a Storm game deserves to feel welcome.”
The WNBA confirmed that Keaton was fined and suspended from attending the team’s next five home games.
Cunningham addressed the situation on social media, calling Keaton’s behavior “truly embarrassing” and reiterating her belief that “there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY… Biological girls, biological boys, trans women, and trans men.” She also praised the teenage fans for standing by their views and said she would be sending them gifts.
Fans reacted strongly on social media, criticizing both Keaton’s conduct and Cunningham’s comments. Several users described the incident as “disgusting” and accused Cunningham of enabling anti-trans sentiment.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions within the WNBA and broader sports community over the participation of transgender athletes.