On Thursday, The WNBA levied an undisclosed fine against Seattle Storm minority owner Celeste Keaton, and suspended her from attending the franchise’s next five home games following a confrontation with spectators during a game earlier in the week. The league’s disciplinary action stems from an incident that unfolded Tuesday night at Climate Pledge Arena while Seattle hosted the Indiana Fever.
According to multiple reports, Keaton verbally confronted two teenage spectators sitting courtside who were displaying signs in support of Indiana guard Sophie Cunningham. Cunningham recently drew significant national attention for her public comments regarding transgender participation in women’s sports. The young attendees held signs expressing support for the veteran guard, including one reading “Thank you, Sophie, for speaking up for girls”. Reports indicate Keaton profanely admonished the fans, allegedly telling them they were “f—ing insane” and demanding, “How dare you come here and pull this s—t?”
Following the interaction, Storm majority owner Ginny Gilder issued an official statement offering a public apology on behalf of the organization. “We are aware one of our co-owners made comments to two fans in attendance at last night’s game,” Gilder stated. “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”. The franchise subsequently noted that it respected the league’s decision to discipline Keaton.
Cunningham addressed the situation on social media, criticizing Keaton’s actions while commending the young fans. “I truly believe there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY,” Cunningham posted on X. “Biological girls, biological boys, trans women, and trans men. Everyone is welcome at my table! You can disagree and still be kind”. She added, “Bravo to those girls for standing up for what they believe. You’ll be hearing from me soon,” calling the executive’s conduct “truly embarrassing” and writing that it “unfortunately shows the type of leader she is”.
Keaton, who joined the Storm’s ownership group in 2024, will miss all five of Seattle’s home contests scheduled throughout August. She will first be eligible to return to courtside attendance at Climate Pledge Arena on Sept. 17, when the Storm host the Las Vegas Aces.
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