WNBA using AI to oversee fans and reduce ‘hate speech’ during the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese rivalry resurgence

WNBA Launches “No Space for Hate” Initiative

This season, the WNBA is implementing new technology to combat “hate speech” from fans. The league introduced a campaign called “No Space for Hate” just before the start of the season. This initiative involves using AI social media monitoring tools to help enforce an updated Code of Conduct.

According to the announcement, the WNBA will collaborate with players and teams to utilize AI-based solutions that track social media interactions, aimed at shielding the community from online harassment and hate speech.

Fox News Digital reached out to the WNBA for more details on the technology’s functionality but has yet to receive a response.

The revised WNBA Fan Code of Conduct now includes specific rules for social media users, indicating that violations could lead to removal from official content. Offensive behaviors such as racist, homophobic, and threatening comments may result in sanctions, including potential bans from games and events.

As the league prepares for the season, one of the most anticipated matchups will be between Kate Rinklerk and Angel Reese on Saturday. Rinklerk’s Indiana Fever will face Reese’s Chicago Sky, continuing a heated rivalry that first ignited during the 2023 NCAA Championship Game.

This rivalry has garnered significant attention, particularly after Reese accused some of Clark’s fans of being “racist” and allegedly circulating inappropriate images to her family.

Rinklerk commented on the fan dynamics, expressing mixed feelings on the loyalty observed from fans, stating, “I think fans are just really rallying behind her, but it’s also quite disrespectful.”

Throughout the 2024 rookie season, Clark herself faced racial comments, even from media figures. ESPN’s Pat McAfee later issued an apology for calling her a derogatory term in a nationwide broadcast. Similarly, comments made by “The View” host Sunny Hostin suggested that Clark’s popularity stemmed from “white privilege.”

In September, there were also allegations of fans making racist remarks during the Fever’s playoff series against the Connecticut Sun.

Star Alyssa Thomas of the Connecticut Sun took a stand against the racist comments post-game, while her teammate Dihony Carrington shared evidence of racial slurs received via email.

Clark, reflecting on the situation, stated, “They’re not fans. They’re trolls.” She emphasized that no athlete should have to endure racism or intimidating comments.