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Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray has revealed a racist message she received on social media following her team's recent WNBA game, highlighting the abuse that professional athletes continue to face online.
The incident came after the Aces' matchup against the Indiana Fever on July 13, during which Gray was involved in a physical play in the first half. While driving to the basket, Gray drew a foul and appeared to make contact with an opposing defender, leading to criticism from some fans after the game. Officials reviewed the play and assessed a common foul.
A day later, Gray shared a screenshot on her Instagram Stories of a message containing racist language, including a racial slur directed at her.
"This was a message I received after our game vs Indy yesterday," Gray wrote alongside the screenshot. "People act like we just make this s--- up. And the audacity to tell us as athletes to 'shut up and dribble.'"
Gray's post quickly sparked support from fans and fellow players. It also renewed conversations about the racist abuse and harassment that many athletes, especially Black players, continue to face on social media after high-profile games.
Her experience follows a similar situation involving Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas earlier this season. Thomas said she received death threats after a hard foul during a June 24 game that resulted in a one-game suspension following a league review.
Speaking to reporters several days later, Thomas insisted the play had been accidental and expressed frustration over the reaction from some fans.
"A lot of us, myself included, didn't even know the play took place until after the game. Now we're being painted as thugs. There's death threats out on us," Thomas said. "It's really unacceptable. It's something that needs to change in this league and I'm just really sick and tired of it."
She added that it was unfortunate for a basketball play to result in such extreme abuse.
Following Thomas' remarks, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert issued a statement strongly condemning hateful behavior directed at players.
"The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate," Engelbert said. "The safety and well-being of everyone in our community is always the league's top priority."
She added that the league had been in contact with the Phoenix Mercury organization after learning of the threats and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting players.
Gray's decision to publicly share the abusive message has once again highlighted the challenges athletes face beyond the court. Many players continue to call for greater accountability and stronger action against online harassment and racist abuse directed at members of the WNBA community.
