The Indiana Fever are under scrutiny after former player Brianna Turner accused the organization of firing a male staff member due to sexual harassment allegations during her tenure with the team. Turner, who played for the Fever in 2025 and now plays for the Las Vegas Aces, made the claims on X following Sophie Cunningham's ESPN interview defending women's sports for biological females.

Cunningham stated she wants to "protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men." Turner responded by highlighting the Fever's alleged handling of harassment allegations, saying the team fired the male staff member but instructed players not to discuss the matter publicly.

Turner also defended trans inclusion in the WNBA, referencing former player Layshia Clarendon, who was born female and later identified as transgender. She noted, "To date there's been one out trans player in the league. They caused zero problems."

The Indiana Fever organization emphasized their commitment to a professional and respectful workplace, stating, "Our policy is to take concerns seriously, investigate thoroughly, and act promptly when appropriate to protect the people in our organization and ensure everyone is treated with professionalism and respect." They added, "Protecting our players and employees and maintaining a respectful, professional workplace is our top priority."

The controversy comes amid ongoing discussions about gender and inclusion in women's sports, with issues of sexism, misogyny, homophobia, and racism also acknowledged as significant concerns.

Sources