Social media can be used as a bridge between athletes and fans, and between the media and fans. It provides a conduit for communication, making news, opinions, and information readily available. The WNBA, like the NFL, MLB, and every other sport, enjoys that luxury.
One of the larger stories in the league is the play of 2026 first-overall selection, Azzi Fudd of the Dallas Wings. The Wings currently sit in the eighth and final playoff spot. However, some fans reacted strongly to the team’s coverage, and others responded.
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WNBA Social Media Buzzes Regarding Death Threats Lobbed At Wings Writer
Grant Afseth, who covered the Wings and the WNBA for Ballislife and other publications, received one particular message that jumped out to him. The reasoning? Some fans of Fudd felt Afesth’s criticisms were too harsh. The writer, a veteran journalist, was asked whether the threats against Fudd were commonplace or new.
“I’ve covered plenty of star athletes and this is the only instance this has happened. So there’s your answer.” stated Afseth. Yet, the threat itself prompted a shift in the writer’s duties. Take Flight Media announced that Afseth would no longer be covering the Wings, leaving some fans puzzled.
“How does it get here,” pondered one post. Afseth gained a following among WNBA fans with his ability to tell an unbiased story regarding the team. The outrage prompted Afseth’s supervisor to offer her opinion.
“I am Grant’s managing editor, and he’s shown the upmost professionalism. Not only that, but he is one of the few interested in covering the basketball aspect without any hidden agenda. I’ve truly never met someone more dedicated to his work/coverage + is on the road nearly 365.” declared Sara Jane Gamelli, his managing editor.
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Similarly, Afseth’s colleagues voiced strong support while questioning fans’ motives and mindsets.
“This is beyond unacceptable and a truly insane response to any reporter covering a team or a player. Grant is an incredible basketball writer and unquestionably the most dedicated journalist on the Wings’ beat. It’s a sad commentary on this league and sports fandom in general that someone would not only send something like this (over SPORTS), but how many are willing to make excuses for it,” wrote Melissa Triebwasser, who covers TCU and is also familiar with Afseth’s work.
“This entire situation has been shocking and disappointing. Grant is a very good reporter and, if this is true, this is a big loss for Wings and women’s hoops fans. Can’t blame him though. There should be absolutely no place in society for this kind of nonsense,” stated Bobby Karalla, who covered the Wings for a rival outlet.
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With the WNBA engulfed in multiple controversies, some writers now must deal with a subsection of fans who threaten them. The ripple effect from the tweets remains to be seen.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.
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