Sophie Cunningham doubles down ahead of Sun game after ESPN profile stirs controversy: ‘I said what I said’
Before Wednesday’s game against the Connecticut Sun, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham doubled down on her call to protect women’s sports from biological male competitors, brushing aside recent backlash over her comments.
“I think I said what I said. I think it was common sense,” Cunningham told reporters when asked to expand on his views.
WRISTWATCH (via @RomeovilleKid/X):
“I will always believe that. Protecting children is really important, and that category includes little girls.”
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According to Cunningham, advocating for women’s sports isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting female athletes.
“I’m not a very political person, but I have beliefs. I have moral values and I will always stand by them,” he explained.
Indiana Fever superstars Sophie Cunningham and Caitlin Clark are arguably the two most popular players in the WNBA. (NBAE via Getty Images)
He noted that Title IX is the foundation of women’s sports, arguing that the law exists to protect opportunities for female athletes. Without those protections, he said, the category loses its purpose.
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Cunningham also rejected the idea that his position was motivated by bigotry, saying that advocating for women’s sports does not mean harboring hatred towards others.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham jokes with Max Holloway after UFC 329 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nev., on July 11, 2026. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
“I offer my love and I don’t hate anyone. I think there is definitely room for everyone here,” he said, adding that he has never expressed hatred towards the transgender community.
He said his focus remains on protecting biological women and girls.
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OutKick founder Clay Travis shared the clip on X.
“Loved all of these. Good job @sophaller,” Travis wrote in part.
She then tagged author JK Rowling, writing: “Hey @jk_rowling, I want to make sure you see this. Sanity is winning in America.”
As for the backlash, Cunningham said he ignored it.
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“I don’t really care,” he said of the political labels attached to his views. “If I’m going to live with love, I’m going to die with hate, and that’s not who I am. I’m beating my own drum.”
June 16, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) celebrates a shot in the first half against the Toronto Tempo at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images (IMAGES BY IMAGN via Reuters Connect)
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