The WNBA fined Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton for confronting and berating two Sophie Cunningham fans on Tuesday.
Keaton, an ordained minister, was fined an undisclosed amount and banned from attending the Storm’s next five home games, the WNBA announced on Thursday.
The incident happened on July 28 during the Fever’s 105-95 win over the Storm at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, WA.
Videos show the two teenagers holding up signs supporting Sophie for saying she wanted to protect young girls in sports.
A “generous donor” paid $1,300 each for courtside seats for the two girls.
WNBA suspends Seattle Storm co-owner five games after blowup with teen Sophie Cunningham fans https://t.co/EsNDXvktSX pic.twitter.com/g8GSeHy7ly
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) July 30, 2026
Keaton approached the 2 girls and yelled at them for holding up signs that read: “Thank you Sophie for speaking up for girls” and “We Love you Sophie.”
The girls also wore T-shirts that read: “XX-XY Athletics.”
Keaton allegedly called the girls “f***ing insane”, and told them she hopes Jesus will forgive them for their sin.
“For you to come here and pull this sh*t, I hope Jesus can save you,” Keaton allegedly said.
Keaton’s harsh remarks left the two girls in tears. The girls told a reporter that no one around them came to their defense.
The news spread like wildfire on social media, and the WNBA responded swiftly by fining Keaton and banning her from attending the next 5 Storm games.
According to her bio, Keaton is an ordained holistic minister as well as a faith healer.
Watch the video below.
Last night, @seattlestorm co-owner Celeste Keaton cursed out two teen girls for wearing @xx_xyathletics shirts, calling them "f*cking insane." One of them was left in tears. I tried to get security involved and was told I should email the front office. pic.twitter.com/Qi8TcfRtYB
— Brandi Kruse (@BrandiKruse) July 29, 2026