Overview

• During ESPN’s broadcast of the Indiana Fever vs. Las Vegas Aces game on June 22, Rebecca Lobo said “That’s what makes America great” while discussing a foul call, prompting play-by-play announcer Pam Ward’s silence.
• Lobo apologized on-air, rephrasing her comment to “differences of opinion are perfectly fine” after Ward suggested clearer language.
• The Las Vegas Aces overcame a deficit to beat the Fever 89-81, led by A’ja Wilson’s 24 points and late-game contributions from Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray.
• Caitlin Clark struggled with her three-point shot, going 1-for-10 en route to 19 points, while Aliyah Boston paced Indiana with 26 points.
• The incident has prompted a broader debate over political expression in sports broadcasting and ESPN’s sensitivity to perceived partisan language.