The WNBA has told the Associated Press that all of its players have been declared safe following a deadly shooting at a nightclub in Istanbul, Turkey.
Reports say the assailant was dressed in a Santa Claus costume and began shooting at the nightclub which was hosting a New Year’s party. The attack left 39 dead and has been declared a terrorist attack by local officials.
Among the players that were near where the shooting occurred included Essence Carson, Jantel Lavender, and Chelsea Gray. Approximately two dozen WNBA players are in Turkey during this offseason.
Carson sent out a tweet to let everyone know she was okay.
We’re okay. Goodnight.
— Essence T. Carson (@Pr3pE) January 1, 2017
Sparks coach Brian Agler told the AP he received a text from Carson letting him know she was safe.
The Chicago Sky also sent out this tweet regarding the status of its players in Turkey.
All Sky players in Turkey have been accounted for by the @wnba as safe!
— CHICAGO SKY (@wnbachicagosky) January 1, 2017
The league also issued this statement following what occurred.
The League’s statement on players in Istanbul. pic.twitter.com/thwONYY6cm
— WNBA (@WNBA) January 1, 2017
This comes only a few days after league president Lisa Borders announced a new and innovative step for players to stay safe while overseas.
The league recently began a partnership with the LiveSafe app to allow players, such as those in Turkey, to communicate with the WNBA to inform and be informed on dangerous and potential life-threatening situations while overseas.
By: Akiem Bailum (@AkiemBailum on Twitter, Instagram)
