Brianna Turner allegations against the Indiana Fever have triggered fresh attention on the franchise after the former player said a male staffer was dismissed over sexual harassment claims during her tenure and that players were told not to discuss the matter.
Turner, who played for the Fever in 2025 and now suits up for the Las Vegas Aces, made the assertions on X after Sophie Cunningham defended limiting women’s sports to biological females during a televised interview.
Brianna Turner allegations follow Cunningham’s comments
Cunningham said she wants to protect girls in locker rooms and competition from having to face “biological men.” Turner pushed back, arguing that internal issues at teams, including the Fever, pose a greater risk to athletes than transgender participation. She wrote that the Fever fired a male staff member after harassment allegations and that players were instructed not to speak publicly about it.
Turner also cited former WNBA player Layshia Clarendon, who was born female and later identified as transgender, saying on X, “To date there’s been one out trans player in the league. They caused zero problems.” She contrasted that with the alleged conduct of the fired staffer, adding that sexism, misogyny, homophobia, and racism are problems the sport must confront.
Fever issue statement on workplace standards
The Indiana Fever released a statement Thursday addressing Turner’s claims. The team said protecting players and employees and ensuring a respectful, professional workplace is a top priority. According to the statement, the organization takes concerns seriously, investigates thoroughly, and acts promptly when appropriate to safeguard personnel and promote professionalism and respect. The Fever added that fostering trust and safety means it does not comment on personnel matters involving former employees.
Unclear whether league will review
As of Thursday, it was not clear whether the WNBA would examine Turner’s allegations. The league had not announced any inquiry or issued a public comment.
The league had not announced any inquiry or issued a public comment, and no related action had been reported in other major sports or policy disputes, such as those involving Congress or federal agencies over different issues like the Jim Jordan referral to the Justice Department.
