Hilton Grand Vacations announced on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, that it has fired an employee who allegedly sent a racial insult to Las Vegas Aces star Chelsea Gray. The company stated, "The person responsible for posting this information is no longer with the company," adding that "his behavior was in violation of multiple company policies and does not reflect our company's values in any way."

Chelsea Gray shared a screenshot of an alleged racial slur she received via Instagram direct message after her team’s loss to Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on Sunday, July 13, 2026. The game occurred amid heightened tensions following an incident on June 24 where Caitlin Clark was punched in the throat by Alyssa Thomas during a Fever vs. Phoenix Mercury game.

Last week, 11 Republican lawmakers wrote to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert alleging that Clark faces racially motivated hostility and expressing concern that the "physical hostility" and "violence" she encounters may also be racially motivated.

Former WNBA All-star Katie Douglas emphasized the need for change, noting the increased physicality Clark faces and the importance of distinguishing fouls from normal contact.

The Fever guard has been working her way back to a full-time role after suffering a back injury on June 24.

Las Vegas Aces guard Aaliyah Nye celebrated with teammates Tiffany Mitchell and Chelsea Gray after scoring against the Indiana Fever during the second half of the game at T-Mobile Arena.

Sources