The WNBA suspends Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton for five home games and imposes a fine after an incident involving two teenage fans during a game in Seattle, according to league and media reports. The league states Keaton’s conduct occurred after an alleged exchange with two 16-year-old girls who were supporting Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham. Reports describe the girls wearing shirts connected to XX-XY Athletics, which they wore in support of Cunningham.
In the accounts, Keaton allegedly confronted the teens and used profanity during the interaction. The New York Post reports Keaton allegedly called the girls “f—king insane,” while other coverage similarly characterizes the incident as profanity directed at the fans. The suspension is limited to five home games, and the WNBA also fines Keaton an undisclosed amount.
The disciplinary action follows the WNBA receiving allegations about the confrontation, and it comes amid public discussion around Cunningham’s comments related to transgender athletes in women’s sports. The league’s action addresses the reported behavior toward fans, not the fans’ stated reasons for supporting Cunningham.
