WNBA bars Storm co-owner 5 home games after fan exchange

Field Level Media|published: Thu 30th July, 12:17 2026

Jul 28, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Fan hold a Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) (not pictured) sign during the first half between the Seattle Storm and the Indiana Fever at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

The WNBA barred Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton from attending Seattle's next five home games following a verbal exchange with fans on Tuesday night.

The league confirmed the suspension on Thursday. The Storm issued an apology Wednesday for Keaton's behavior, with multiple reports saying she profanely admonished two young female fans for holding signs supporting the views of Indiana guard Sophie Cunningham during the Fever's 105-95 win.

Cunningham recently went to bat for the protection of women's sports and keeping them female-only. The girls each had a sign, including one reading "Thank you Sophie for speaking up for girls!"

Independent journalist Brandi Kruse reported that Keaton told the girls they were "f--ing insane."

"We are aware one of our co-owners made comments to two fans in attendance at last night's game," Storm majority owner Ginny Gilder said in a statement on Wednesday. "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."

Kruse told Fox News that the scene included Seattle players making thumbs-down gestures to the girls.

Cunningham denounced Keaton's actions on social media on Wednesday.

"I truly believe there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY," she 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.

"Bravo to those girls for standing up for what they believe. You'll be hearing from me soon ... yay for gifts.

"Truly embarrassing of the co-owner. Unfortunately shows the type of leader she is."

The league also issued an undisclosed fine to Keaton, who has been part of the team's ownership group since 2024.

The Storm (6-24) have lost seven consecutive games and own the worst record in the league.

Keaton's suspension covers all five of Seattle's home games in the month of August. She would be eligible to return on Sept. 17 against the Las Vegas Aces.

--Field Level Media

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