Sophie Cunningham has established herself as one of the most popular and polarizing players in the WNBA as an enforcer for the Indiana Fever.
Amid her growing popularity on and off the court, Outkick founder Clay Travis has heaped praise on the 29-year-old.
Clay Travis Hails Sophie Cunningham For Take on Trans Athletes in Women’s Sports
Cunningham recently gave an interview with ESPN, where she clarified her political stance and also opened up about the preconceived notions that people have about her. She spoke about how she is viewed online, where she has cultivated a large following with her brash, fearless persona.
During the interview, Cunningham spoke about how she will always look to “protect women’s sports” and commented on accusations of her holding anti-trans views. She also made her feelings clear on the ongoing debate about trans women being allowed to play in women’s sports.
“I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I’m like, ‘I never once said that.’ I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men,” Cunningham told ESPN.
Travis was left impressed with Cunningham’s answer and hailed her as the “anti-Megan Rapinoe,” who has established herself as an outspoken progressive activist. The U.S. soccer legend has often addressed issues of racial and gender equality.
“Sophie Cunningham just became one of the first current American female pro athletes to come out against men playing in women’s sports in an ESPN profile article. Good for her. Rock star. Many others should follow. She’s the anti-Megan Rapinoe,” he wrote on X while sharing an excerpt from the ESPN article.
Sophie Cunningham just became one of the first current American female pro athletes to come out against men playing in women’s sports in an @espn profile article. Good for her. Rock star. Many others should follow. She’s the anti-Megan Rapinoe. pic.twitter.com/U170TUK3BN
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) July 22, 2026
Amid her increasing popularity, Cunningham is continuing to adopt her no-nonsense approach both on and off the court. She is enjoying an impressive year with the Fever, averaging 9.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. She has come up with several clutch plays in recent weeks, leading the Fever to a 7-3 run in their last 10 games.
Cunningham has also found mainstream success in recent months, becoming one of the most popular stars of the WNBA. Her presence has also extended beyond the league as she took on the role of a ring girl at UFC 329 earlier this month. In addition, she hosts the popular “Show Me Something” podcast and has appeared as an analyst on USA Network.
