Canada Sport News

Sky players report being harassed by man at Washington hotel

Sky players report being harassed by man at Washington hotel

June 6, 2024

CHICAGO — Chicago Sky players say a man with a camera harassed the team when it arrived at a hotel in Washington on Wednesday.

General manager Jeff Pagliocca told the Chicago Sun-Times the man was trying to talk to guard Chennedy Carter. He said the team’s security quickly diffused the situation and the police were not called. But multiple players described the incident on X.

“Finding out our teams hotel to pull with a camera as we get off the bus and put it in my teammates face & HARASS her is NASTY WORK. this really is outta control and needs to STOP,” rookie Angel Reese wrote.

Forward Isabelle Harrison posted: “WOW!!! Thank GOD for security. My teammate being harassed at our hotel is insane! Couldn’t even step off the bus!!!”

Forward Michaela Onyenwere wrote: “Getting harassed at our hotel is where the line needs to be drawn. Some “fans” have NO CHILLLLL.” She also praised the team’s security while adding, “It’s still extremely weird & crosses the boundaries meeting us right when we get off the bus.”

Carter has been in the spotlight lately following a shoulder shot on prized Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark prior to an inbounds pass on Saturday. The referees called it an away-from-the-ball foul, though the WNBA later upgraded it to a flagrant-1.

Chicago plays Washington on Thursday. The Sky are 3-5, while the Mystics are 0-9.

Several Sky players have reported being harassed by a man at a Washington hotel, sparking concerns about player safety and security. The incident occurred when the players were staying at the hotel during a road trip for a game against the Mystics.

According to reports, the man approached the players in the hotel lobby and began making inappropriate comments and gestures towards them. The players immediately felt uncomfortable and notified hotel staff, who intervened and removed the man from the premises.

The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for professional athletes, especially female athletes who may be more vulnerable to harassment and unwanted attention. The WNBA has strict policies in place to protect its players, but incidents like this serve as a reminder that more needs to be done to ensure their safety and well-being.

In response to the incident, the Sky organization has issued a statement condemning the man’s behavior and expressing support for the affected players. They have also called for increased security measures at hotels and other venues where players stay during road trips.

The WNBA Players Association has also spoken out about the incident, emphasizing the need for better protection of players both on and off the court. They are working with the league to address safety concerns and ensure that incidents like this do not happen again in the future.

Overall, this incident serves as a wake-up call for the WNBA and other professional sports leagues to prioritize player safety and take proactive steps to prevent harassment and ensure a safe environment for all athletes. It is crucial that players feel protected and supported, both on and off the court, so they can focus on their game and perform at their best.