Sunday, October 18, 2026 Edition · Raleigh 61° Clear Watch Live Sign in Subscribe
Genius Eye News
See the move first
Markets
Atlanta

Controversy at WNBA Finals game involving Atlanta Dream fans over XX-XY shirts

Fans at WNBA Finals game involving Atlanta Dream clashed over shirts opposing transgender athletes in women's sports.

Oct 18, 2026, 12:40 PM By the Genius Eye newsroom (City Reporter) · Fact-checkedHow we report
Photo: MSGT Joseph Pittelli, U.S. Air Force / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

During Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, which featured the Atlanta Dream and a Golden State team, controversy arose in the stands at the Chase Center, according to townhall.com and wcbm.com.

The incident involved fans wearing shirts from XX-XY Athletics, a brand opposing transgender athlete participation in women's sports. The company was founded by Jennifer Sey, a former gymnast and marketing executive, and aims to protect women's sports and spaces.

Fans wearing the XX-XY shirts were reportedly harassed by others in attendance. The friction included verbal insults and gestures, with security personnel asking both groups to keep to themselves, townhall.com reported.

One targeted individual wearing the shirt was a black woman, and some commentary on social media noted racial dynamics in the confrontation, highlighting tensions among attendees.

The game ended with the Golden State team defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-64, but the incident in the stands drew national attention and sparked discussion about sports, identity, and fan behavior.

Comments

No comments yet.

Sign in to comment