Hilton Grand Vacations investigating employee suspected of sending racial slur to Aces star Chelsea Gray

Hilton Grand Vacations told Front Office Sports on Tuesday that it is investigating an employee who is suspected of sending a racial slur to Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray.

The incident occurred on Sunday, and Gray posted about it to her Instagram story on Monday night.

The guard’s post showed an Instagram username sending her a DM that included a racial slur. She posted it saying, “People act like we make this s— up. And the audacity to tell us as athletes to ‘shut up and dribble.’”

It has always been said to be careful about what you post on social media and not to hide behind a keyboard. Others on Instagram saw the response and investigated the profile of the person who sent the slur.

They noticed that in one picture on the person’s story, they were wearing a Hilton Grand Vacations name tag and the company was tagged several times.

On Tuesday, the company said it is conducting an investigation into the matter.

“We are aware of the allegations involving this individual and are currently investigating the matter. The behavior described would be in violation of multiple company policies and does not reflect our company’s values in any way. We take these concerns seriously and will take appropriate action based on the findings of our review.”

The Gray incident comes two weeks after Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas was outspoken about the death threats and abuse she received on social media after an altercation in a game with Caitlin Clark.

“The biggest thing is, it's just about our safety. We're so concerned about the safety on the court, but time and time again we're having people threatening our lives. … At some point, the league needs to put a stand on it. They've came out with 'no hate' speech, but what is that going to do?

At some point, time and time again, players are going through this and the league remains silent. I'm sick and tired of it, and it's time for them to step up and have our backs in this instance.”

WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert released a statement after Thomas’ initial comments about the hate she received online.

“The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate. The safety and well-being of everyone in our community is always the league's top priority.

We are aware of Alyssa Thomas' comments, and what she and her teammates have experienced is completely unacceptable and not representative of the WNBA community. The league and our security team have been in contact with the Phoenix Mercury organization and remain committed to protecting all players."