JK Rowling praises fans protesting at WNBA game after co-owner's remarks
Author J.K. Rowling commended two fans who protested at a Seattle Storm game, calling them heroines, after the team's co-owner was suspended for allegedly harassing them.
J.K. Rowling posted on X on Wednesday praising two young women who protested at a Seattle Storm versus Indiana Fever WNBA game, describing them as "heroines" for peacefully opposing men playing in women's sports. > "These young women are heroines. They're peacefully protesting against the grotesque unfairness of men playing in women's sport. The only people who are insane here are those making a mockery of fair sport for women and trying to bully girls like this into silence," Rowling wrote.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton allegedly called the two fans "insane" during the game, according to journalist Brandi Kruse, who was present at the arena. The Storm later announced Keaton's suspension and issued an apology, stating, "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."
Additional footage showed a male spectator directing a derogatory comment toward the fans. WNBA player Sophie Cunningham responded on social media, emphasizing an inclusive stance: "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. Bravo to those girls for standing up for what they believe."
The Storm's response and Cunningham's statement highlight ongoing debates over gender inclusion policies in women's sports.