The NBA Should Stop Funding the WNBA Over Alleged Anti-White Racial Violence
Source: Shawn Fleetwood. "The NBA Is Enabling The WNBA's Anti-White Violence." August 10, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
The author argues that the WNBA has a problem with black players being unfairly aggressive toward white stars like Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, and that the NBA—which funds most of the league—is complicit by not stepping in to stop it. He concludes the NBA should cut funding unless the WNBA reforms.
Conclusion
The NBA should stop financially backing the WNBA because it is enabling a pattern of anti-white racial violence and hostility toward white players.
Premises
- A flagrant foul by black player DiJonai Carrington against white player Sophie Cunningham, which Carrington characterized as related to 'white privilege,' exemplifies a broader pattern of violence against white players Cunningham and Caitlin Clark.
- This alleged pattern stems from resentment by the predominantly black (and significantly lesbian) player base toward popular white, heterosexual players who are bringing attention to the league.
- The WNBA has failed to adequately discipline or address this behavior (e.g., not suspending Carrington, coaches not fully backing Cunningham).
- The WNBA is financially dependent on the NBA, which owns roughly 60% of the league and has substantial financial influence over it.
- The WNBA is financially unsuccessful (losing $40 million in 2024) and thus survives only through NBA subsidy.
- Despite its financial leverage, the NBA has done nothing to push the WNBA toward reform or accountability.
- Therefore, continued NBA funding without demanding reform constitutes enabling this alleged pattern of racial violence.
Assumptions
- A single foul and its social media framing are representative of a genuine, systemic 'anti-white violence' pattern rather than isolated incidents or normal competitive physical play.
- Player demographics (race, sexuality) are causally linked to on-court aggression rather than other factors like competitiveness or rivalry.
- The NBA has both the obligation and practical ability to influence WNBA disciplinary and cultural practices through its financial stake.
- Financial support without explicit public reform demands equates to endorsement or enabling of misconduct.
- The WNBA's positions on transgender athletes and other social issues are relevant to and indicative of its handling of racial dynamics among players.