Hilton Grand Vacations Fires Employee Over Racial Slur Sent to Player

Hilton Grand Vacations terminated an employee who sent a racial slur through social media to Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray. This incident occurred following the team’s 109-75 defeat by the Indiana Fever. Gray, 33, shared the offensive message on her Instagram story. She remarked, according to CBS Sports, that athletes are often told to ‘shut up and dribble.’

Hilton Grand Vacations released a statement confirming the dismissal, citing the employee’s behavior as a violation of company policies. The company emphasized that such actions do not align with their values. The Las Vegas Aces have yet to comment on the situation. Gray expressed gratitude for the supportive messages she received from fans on her Instagram story.

The concern over social media harassment continues in the WNBA. Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams also received hate messages linked to betting losses, as reported by CBS affiliate KLAS. Similarly, Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas faced racial slurs and death threats following a game incident involving Caitlin Clark of the Fever.

Alyssa Thomas criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for inadequate protection of players. At a press conference in June, Thomas described the threats and derogatory perceptions cast on players as ‘unacceptable.’ She stressed the need for change within the league.

Clark and Fever coach Stephanie White have condemned the messages received by Thomas. White highlighted the increasing levels of toxicity, racism, and homophobia within the league, labeling such hate as entirely unacceptable.

The WNBA and its players’ union have aimed to address these issues through a new collective bargaining agreement. This agreement focuses on player security, mental health resources, fan conduct, and campaigns against hate, yet online harassment remains a troubling issue.