WNBA players and their union have criticized Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for not strongly condemning racism and hate speech directed at players, especially amid the heightened visibility brought by rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. During an interview on CNBC, Engelbert emphasized the importance of rivalries in sports but failed to address the harmful social media abuse experienced by players. WNBA executive director Terri Jackson and players like Kelsey Plum and Alysha Clark expressed disappointment, stressing the need for immediate action against toxic fandom. Engelbert later clarified her stance on social media, asserting that there is no place for hate or racism in the WNBA. The controversy highlights ongoing issues of racism, misogyny, and harassment in women's sports.