Sophie Cunningham is one of the most talked about athletes in the world these days.
The Indiana Fever guard, who is in Year 2 with the franchise after being traded from the Phoenix Mercury, caused a media firestorm when she spoke out against transgender athletes in women's sports. Cunningham said that it's "common sense" to keep transgender athletes out of women's sports.
In the ESPN article, Cunningham said that she wanted to “protect young girls in the locker room” and that “they shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”
“I said what I said. I think it’s kind of common sense,” Cunningham said. “And I think I’ll always believe in that. I think it’s really important to protect children, and that’s little girls who are also involved in that category. I stand on what I said.”
© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Cunningham once again caused a firestorm on Tuesday night, though this time, it wasn't really her fault. A pro-Sophie Cunningham rally was held in Seattle, Washington. Two young fans at the game were harassed by a Storm owner, after wearing XX XY shirts.
Cunningham spoke out on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"I truly believe there is a safe space and love for EVERYBODY. Biological girls, biological boys, trans women, and trans men. Everyone is welcome at my table! You can disagree and still be kind. Bravo to those girls for standing up for what they believe. You’ll be hearing from me soon," she wrote.
"Yay for gifts. Truly embarrassing of the co-owner. Unfortunately shows the type of leader she is."
Cunningham's family had to have 'conversations' about how to deal with her
Cunningham causing a frenzy is nothing new to her family, apparently. The Cunningham clan, which includes her parents and an older sister, had to have "conversations" about how to deal with her growing up.
It sounds like Cunningham has always been a bit of a firecracker.
Cunningham's family, though, is standing by her amid the latest controversy.
The Indiana Fever will return to the court on July 31 against the Fire.
