NEW YORK – The WNBA issued the following statement regarding today’s incident involving the Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner:

“As we gather additional information about today’s incident at the Dallas Airport, it has come to our attention that this was orchestrated by a social media figure and provocateur. His actions were inappropriate and unfortunate.

“The safety of Brittney Griner and all WNBA players is our top priority.  Prior to the season, the WNBA worked together with the Phoenix Mercury and BG’s team to ensure her safety during her travel, which included charter flights for WNBA games and assigned security personnel with her at all times.  We remain steadfastly committed to the highest standards of security for players.”