BREAKING: The WNBA has announced that it is ending its partnership with Stonewall and will no longer allow the Indiana Fever captains to wear pro-LGBTQ rainbow armbands, or any other rainbow-themed imagery on the court, including shoelaces, wristbands, and armbands. This decision was made following a meeting with the captains of all 14 teams on Monday. Caitlin Clark, a prominent star for the Indiana Fever, has spoken out, expressing disappointment and commitment to finding new ways to show support for the LGBTQ+ community off the court.

In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced on Monday, September 15, 2025, that it is ending its partnership with Stonewall, a prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. The league also revealed a controversial ban on players, including captains of the Indiana Fever, from wearing rainbow-themed apparel, such as armbands, wristbands, or shoes, during games. This decision, made after a closed-door meeting with team representatives, marks a significant departure from the WNBA’s previous efforts to promote inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community during key moments, including Pride Month.

The WNBA’s Rationale

WNBA leadership explained that the decision stems from a desire to refocus the game on athletic competition, avoiding what they described as “distractions” caused by visible political or social symbols. According to an anonymous league executive, “The WNBA remains committed to a professional and unified appearance on the court. This decision is not against any community but is about ensuring that the focus stays on the game itself.” The ban applies to rainbow-themed attire, including armbands and wristbands, during official games. However, players are still permitted to express their support for LGBTQ+ causes off the court, such as during press conferences or in community outreach activities.

This decision mirrors a recent move by the NFL, which also ended its partnership with Stonewall and prohibited rainbow-themed imagery on the field. However, the WNBA’s decision has sparked immediate debate, with critics claiming it represents a step backward in the league’s efforts to promote inclusivity.

Caitlin Clark Speaks Out

Caitlin Clark, one of the WNBA’s most prominent stars and a known advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, was quick to voice her opinion after the announcement. The Indiana Fever guard, widely respected for her leadership both on and off the court, addressed the media shortly after the news broke.

“I’m proud to play in a league that has always been about supporting each other, but this decision is tough for a lot of us,” Clark stated. “Wearing the rainbow colors on the court was a simple but powerful way to show that we stand with the LGBTQ+ community. This is a setback, and it’s difficult to see our voices limited in such a way. We’ll find other ways to express our support, but this decision doesn’t change what we believe.”

Clark’s statement resonated with many players and fans who viewed the decision as a blow to the league’s previous stance on inclusivity. She emphasized that while the league had made this decision, her personal commitment to standing with the LGBTQ+ community would remain unchanged.

Team and Player Reactions

The WNBA’s decision has sparked a strong wave of reactions from both players and fans. Many players, especially those who have been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed their disappointment at the ban. An anonymous Indiana Fever player shared, “Wearing the rainbow armband was a small but meaningful gesture, something that showed our support for everyone, no matter who they are. It’s hard to see that taken away.”

Other players, however, have voiced their support for the decision, arguing that it was important to keep the focus on the game and avoid mixing sports with political or social messages. Some players believe that while inclusivity is important, the court should be a place where the focus is solely on athletic competition.

On social media, the response has been divided. Hashtags like #WNBABansRainbow and #SupportLGBTQ quickly trended, with fans voicing their strong opinions about the decision. Advocacy groups, including Stonewall, issued statements condemning the move. A Stonewall spokesperson commented, “Rainbow imagery has been an important symbol of inclusion and visibility in women’s sports. This decision sends a harmful message to LGBTQ+ athletes and fans who looked to the WNBA for representation.”

Broader Implications for the WNBA and Sports

The WNBA’s decision comes at a time when many sports leagues around the world are grappling with how to balance social advocacy with the need to maintain focus on competition. The league has previously shown a commitment to diversity and inclusion, with players taking visible stands on various social justice issues. However, the ban on rainbow-themed apparel during games raises questions about whether the league is shifting its priorities.

Critics argue that the decision could alienate a significant portion of the WNBA’s fanbase, particularly LGBTQ+ fans who felt represented by the visible signs of support from players. Supporters of the decision, meanwhile, contend that it reinforces the idea that sports should be a unifying space, free from divisive symbols. This debate is unlikely to subside anytime soon, as players and advocacy groups continue to voice their concerns.

Looking Ahead

As the WNBA navigates this controversial decision, all eyes will be on how players, teams, and coaches respond. Caitlin Clark and her Indiana Fever teammates may explore alternative ways to demonstrate support for the LGBTQ+ community, such as through community outreach, charity events, or public statements.

While the league has restricted visible support during games, it remains to be seen how the WNBA’s approach to inclusivity will evolve moving forward. The outcome of this debate will likely have long-lasting implications on the league’s relationship with diverse fan groups, as well as the role of women’s sports in advocating for social change.