WNBA and union say they will continue to 'enhance security resources' after meeting about online harassment

[ASFN Admin]

The Caitlin Clark-Alyssa Thomas has seen a number of ripple effects in the WNBA and beyond. One of them saw the league and union leadership meet Tuesday to discuss online harassment.

The meeting was called in the wake of Thomas’ foul on Clark on June 24, which saw no call during the game but was later upgraded to a Flagrant 2 with a one-game suspension. Thomas reported receiving death threats in the wake of the incident and called out both the league and WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert over an alleged lack of support.

On Wednesday, the WNBA released a joint statement with the Women’s National Basketball Players Association, announcing that league leadership had met with the union’s executive committee and Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee.

No immediate moves were announced, but the two sides indicaated plans are in the works to upgrade security for players.

The full statement:

"Last night, WNBA leadership and members of the WNBPA Executive Committee and Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee met for an honest and meaningful conversation about the recent increase in racist, hateful, and abusive messages directed at players, as well as other matters before the committees.

"The conversation underscored the importance of addressing issues early through proactive communication and strengthening the league-union relationship. The league committed to continuing to enhance security resources and will work with the players' union to explore collaborations with organizations that share the values of our league and advance our shared priorities.

"Yesterday's discussion marked the beginning of an ongoing dialogue, and we are united in our commitment to building on this work together."

Per The Athletic’s Annie Costabile, the two sides discussed pursuing accountability from tech companies and more streamlined conversations among the league’s security arms. Other suggestions included a replay center and last two minute report, much like the NBA uses, but neither option could be instituted this season.

How one member of union leadership described the meeting:

“The biggest thing was communication,” Chicago Sky center and WNBPA secretary Elizabeth Williams said. “Communication from Cathy and the league side being a little more consistent, you know, so we feel more comfortable.

“Overall, there are steps that are being taken, which is encouraging. But we just want to see a little more consistency.”

One thing Williams reportedly said was helpful was an outlining of the reporting process for online harassment, the full scope of which some players apparently didn’t understand.

The players also reportedly called for more accountability for officials, an issue that even NBA commissioner Adam Silver has publicly said needs an improvement.

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