Home / Sports / WNBA Star Faces Online Hate Amidst Betting Scrutiny
WNBA Star Faces Online Hate Amidst Betting Scrutiny
17 Jul
Summary
- Player receives racial slurs and death threats from bettors.
- Advocates for stronger WNBA commissioner and NBA leader support.
- Online abuse directed at players increases with betting popularity.
Natasha Cloud, a player for the Chicago Sky, has publicly detailed the severe online harassment she and other WNBA players face, including racial slurs and death threats, often stemming from sports bettors. Cloud expressed frustration with the perceived inaction from league leadership.
She specifically called on WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to be more vocal and proactive in addressing these threats. Cloud also urged NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to lend his support, emphasizing that while the expansion of sports betting benefits the league's business, the safety and protection of players must remain the top priority.
Cloud's statements echo concerns raised by other WNBA players, such as Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces, who also reported receiving racist messages. The rising instances of online abuse highlight a critical issue for player well-being within the league.
