After the WNBA concluded its investigation into allegations of racial abuse directed at Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese, ESPN analyst and former WNBA player Chiney Ogwumike issued a public apology, acknowledging that her initial remarks were made in the “heat of the moment” and pledging to “do better.”
The following has been released by the WNBA. pic.twitter.com/rFlKQAHmzQ
— WNBA Communications (@WNBAComms) May 27, 2025
The apology comes after a high-profile controversy that erupted following the May 17 season opener, where Reese’s team was soundly defeated by the Indiana Fever, 93–58. Rumors and social media buzz claimed that Fever fans in Indianapolis had hurled racial slurs at Reese, sparking an official league inquiry and waves of reaction—some of which, like Ogwumike’s, assumed the accusations were fact before evidence was presented.
Appearing on ESPN shortly after the initial claims surfaced, Ogwumike commented on the situation with urgency and conviction:
“When it comes to the racism and the hateful rhetoric… we have no space in our game for those types of comments,” she said, advocating for unity and fan decorum.
However, on Tuesday, the WNBA announced that it had found no evidence to substantiate the allegations. That finding prompted Ogwumike to take to social media and issue a full-throated apology for her earlier remarks, while clarifying the context behind them.
“I’m sorry that my message was in the heat of the moment,” she said. “It really came from a place of care… It was based on first-hand conversations with people very close to the situation.”
Ogwumike emphasized that she did not intend to malign fans, particularly those in Indiana, where she herself has fond memories as a former player. She added:
“I totally recognize that it may have impacted fans in a way I did not intend, and I’m sorry.”
In her video statement, Ogwumike also reflected on the responsibility that comes with her role as a high-profile media personality.
“Having a platform comes with a responsibility, and I do not take that lightly… I am so committed to be better in how I share perspectives.”
The ESPN analyst reaffirmed her passion for the league, the players, and its growing community, pledging to grow alongside the WNBA as it continues its rapid rise in national prominence.
The Reese incident—and the intense media attention that followed—is emblematic of the hyper-scrutinized environment in which the WNBA now finds itself. With stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese leading a surge in ratings, attendance, and cultural visibility, the league is no longer niche—it’s center stage. That visibility, however, brings with it new levels of public discourse, polarization, and pressure, not just on players, but on analysts and journalists as well.
I’m never afraid to say that I can do better… (my thoughts on the wnba investigation) pic.twitter.com/PaGmcwvTPE
— Chiney Ogwumike (@chiney) May 28, 2025
