Story perspectives

WNBA suspends co-owner after shirt incident at Fever game

8/19/2026

Summary

Celeste Keaton Suspended

On August 18, 2026, after WNBA security asked fans at the Atlanta Dream-Indiana Fever game to cover shirts with transgender participation messages, fans Kasey Thomason and daughter Annie reported being threatened with ejection and forced to wear “Wellness & Health Night” shirts.
The league said the staff mishandled the incident.
Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was suspended for five home games and fined after allegedly insulting teenage fans supporting Sophie Cunningham.

Summary

Cunningham Partners

Once Upon a Coconut announced a national partnership with Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham for advertising, retail and digital campaigns.
Founder and CEO John Chiorando said Cunningham embodies the brand’s toughness, resilience, compassion and authenticity.
The company disclosed it donates 10 % of profits to charitable causes, matching Cunningham’s community focus.
Cunningham’s endorsement roster now adds Once Upon a Coconut alongside Adidas, European Wax Center and other partners, increasing WNBA visibility.

History

Historical Context

On June 26 2015 the U.S. Supreme Court, in a 5-4 opinion written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, required all 50 states to license and recognize same-sex marriage, extending rights that already existed in 36 states. The ruling created a nationwide standard, and the 2026 WNBA clash over player Sophie Cunningham shows inclusion debates persist.

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Celeste Keaton Suspended

On August 18, 2026, after WNBA security asked fans at the Atlanta Dream-Indiana Fever game to cover shirts with transgender participation messages, fans Kasey Thomason and daughter Annie reported being threatened with ejection and forced to wear “Wellness & Health Night” shirts.
The league said the staff mishandled the incident.
Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was suspended for five home games and fined after allegedly insulting teenage fans supporting Sophie Cunningham.

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