Women’s basketball continues to make headlines for its offensive and sexist treatment of female players. First, there was the viral story earlier this year about the incredible disparity in training facilities and resources set-up for female NCAA basketball players compared to male players — with the men getting better weight rooms, food buffets, swag bags and even playing venues than those allotted for the women. Now, a head coach in the WNBA is facing a suspension and hefty fine after criticizing a player on an opposing team for her weight.
Jill Martin of CNN reported that “Connecticut Sun head coach Curt Miller has been fined $10,000 and suspended for one game after making a comment to a game official regarding Liz Cambage of the Las Vegas Aces.”
Miller is said to have been arguing a call with an official during the May 23 game between the Aces and the Sun when he referred to Cambage’s size and yelled “Come on, she’s 300 pounds.”
Following the incident, the three-time All-Star and two-time all-WNBA selection took to social media to vent her disapproval of Miller’s actions while also proudly clarifying that she is actually 6-foot-8 and 235 pounds.
“I will never let a man disrespect me, ever, ever, ever, especially a little white one. Don’t ever try to disrespect me or another woman in the league,” Cambage said in an Instagram story addressing the incident. “I’m very proud of being a big [woman]. … So don’t ever try to disrespect me or another woman in the league. I don’t know if that’s how coaches run. You try to disrespect women like that from the sideline? You’re so lucky it was during a game.”
Liz Cambage addressing Curt Miller on IG 👀🍿 #WNBA pic.twitter.com/IRTR7ESROJ
— W Lead (@WNBALead) May 24, 2021
On Monday, prior to news of his suspension and fine being made public, Miller apologized to Cambage in a statement, saying, “during last night’s game, while arguing a call with an official, I made an inappropriate and offensive comment in reference to Liz Cambage’s height and weight. I regret what I said in the heat of the moment and want to sincerely apologize to Liz and the entire Aces organization. I understand the gravity of my words and have learned from this.”
Miller will serve his suspension today when the Connecticut Sun plays against the Seattle Storm.
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