A WNBA reporter has received criticism from fans after a media session with the LA Sparks guard Kelsey Plum. The player was addressing reporters before Team USA’s stint in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers that are set to begin next week. However, women’s sports reporter Annie Costabile asked an unrelated question about CBA negotiations.
A few days ago, WNBPA Vice President Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum wrote a letter to the WNBPA, expressing the players’ interest in the new revenue deal and raising questions about the players’ association’s negotiations. While the association has yet to respond, several fans have opined that the letter was critical of union executive director Terri Jackson.
On the Team USA media interaction with Plum, a reporter asked the guard about CBA negotiations. However, she clearly stated that she was there to answer questions regarding Team USA and the World Cup qualifiers.
Ignoring the 2-time WNBA champion’s request, WNBA reporter Annie followed up with a similar question about her letter to the WNBPA and whether she received a response on that. It created an awkward situation, but Plum calmly continued to talk about the FIBA World Cup qualifiers. She said:
“Like I said before, I a, super here to lock in and play and I’m super greatful for this opportunity so, I’m looking forward to competing over the next couple of weeks. And honestly like, let’s be clear, this is always an opportunity to try to grow your game and then compete and you want to be the world cup team, and so, that’s the goal here.”
A fan shared the video of the media interaction on Threads and wrote:
“Annie Costible is so disrespectful, Kelsey clearly set Team USA Question only boundaries after the first question. Everyone respected her except Annie Costible.She completely ignored it.”
View on Threads
Several other fans mentioned their disappointment with the WNBA reporter and criticized her for ignoring Plum’s request and putting her on the spot.
Caitlin Clark seen vibing with Kelsey Plum before Team USA’s first practice
Team USA squad was recently seen arriving for the first practice of the FIBA World Cup qualifiers. The whole team looked refreshed and ready to represent the country, and the Sparks guard Kelsey Plum was seen vibing on music with her national teammate Caitlin Clark.
USA Basketball shared the video on X and wrote:
“Vibes are v v good”
Clark will return after missing the entire 2025 WNBA season due to a right groin strain. Fans look forward to the team representing at the national level and expect them to make it to the main schedule.
READ MORE: Caitlin Clark Sends Subtle Message to WNBA Players Amid CBA Negotiations
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