Breanna Stewart, a star player for the New York Liberty, revealed that she and her wife, Marta Xargay Casademont, received threatening and homophobic emails after Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. The emails were sent directly to Xargay Casademont’s account, which was unsettling for the couple. Stewart expressed concern for their safety, especially for their children, and described the experience as terrifying for Xargay Casademont. The couple has two children, three-year-old Ruby and 11-month-old Theo.
Stewart had a chance to win Game 1 of the WNBA Finals but missed crucial free throws and a potential game-tying layup. The series is now tied 1-1 as they head into Game 3 in Minnesota. Stewart informed the team about the threatening emails and they escalated the issue to league security. She emphasized that while engagement in the sport is appreciated, threats, harassment, and homophobic comments have no place in the WNBA. The New York Post first reported the threats, and Xargay Casademont filed a formal complaint with the police at the team’s advice. The New York Police Department confirmed receiving a report of aggravated harassment involving emails sent to a 33-year-old victim and the hate crimes task force is investigating.
Stewart acknowledged that she typically does not read most of the messages she receives, but once she became aware of the threatening emails, she felt it was important to speak out against such behavior. She emphasized that there is no place for hate or threats in the sport and wanted to use her platform to address the issue. The WNBA spokesperson echoed this sentiment, stating that there is no room for hateful or threatening comments directed towards players, teams, or anyone associated with the league. The league is working with team and league security, as well as law enforcement, to ensure appropriate measures are taken.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the increasing number of attacks on players through social media and emphasized the need to combat this behavior. She mentioned the importance of technology and mental health support for players dealing with online threats. Stewart called for a protocol to be put in place before the start of the season to address these issues more effectively. The league is working with the players’ union to tackle this problem and provide support for those affected. The safety and well-being of players and their families are a top priority for the WNBA, and steps are being taken to address these threats and ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.
