Alyssa Thomas Sends Strong Message on Angel Reese Amid WNBA Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dibyendu Mondal | Last updated May 28, 2025 1:36 PM ET

Alyssa Thomas and Angel Reese shared a good bit of rivalry during the matchup on Saturday, which the Phoenix Mercury won 94-89. It started with Reese decking Thomas and ended with Thomas mocking Reese after scoring.

But off the court, all WNBA players share a deep sense of connection. That was evident when Thomas was asked for her input on the matter of racism that the WNBA is presently investigating after the Sky-Fever game.

"I think as a league, we stick together as players. If she [Angel Reese] said she heard it, then we believe her. I believe her," she said. "It's unacceptable, it's something that we're gonna continue to fight for regardless if they found anything or not."

WNBA opened an inquiry after reports that Reese was subjected to racist fan remarks during the May 17 game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse against the Indiana Fever.

Over the ensuing week, league officials reviewed arena audio and video and conducted interviews with attendees, team and venue staff.

On Wednesday, the WNBA announced it “could not substantiate” any evidence of hateful fan behavior.

Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas on the WNBA's investigation into racism that took place on May 17 between the Fever and Sky:

"I think as a league, we stick together as players. If she [Angel Reese] said she heard it, then we believe her. I believe her. ... It's unacceptable, it's… pic.twitter.com/fkliggkRYR
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 28, 2025

In the aftermath, ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, who had publicly discussed the allegations, issued a video apology, acknowledging that her words had come from a place of care for the players, and she promised to do better.

It all happened when Caitlin Clark committed a flagrant foul against Reese, which heated things between the two stars on the court. Allegations arose that the spectators threw racial comments at her.

Thomas' stance underscores the broader unity that exists between the women of the game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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