Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham recently made some controversial remarks revealing her belief that transgender athletes shouldn’t be allowed to participate in women’s sports.
Now, for the first time since she opened up that can of worms, Cunningham is speaking up again.
Sophie Cunningham Says Supportive Fans are ‘Courageous’
Since she made her comments, each time the Fever have played, fans have shown up in droves, either supporting her or chastising her. Though, Cunningham is proud of the ralliers who have taken time out of their busy lives to provide their backing.
Speaking for the first time since she initially made the transgender comments, Cunningham called her supporters “bold” and “courageous.”
“I think it’s people just practicing their rights of freedom of speech and doing what other fans have been doing since the WNBA has started, and so props to them, props to everyone who was able to be confident and be bold and courageous enough to speak their truths,” Cunningham said.
She added that this unique situation is actually a “great opportunity” for the WNBA.
“I think this is a great opportunity for the WNBA,” Cunningham added. “You know, they preach diversity and being inclusive. So, what a great opportunity for them to actually be that.”
Ralliers in support of Cunningham have gathered outside of the arena in each of the Fever’s last two games. Though, there have also been groups of protesters who strongly disagree with her views. More rallies are expected, even for Indiana’s road trips to Minneapolis and Chicago.
In-game, Cunningham has been faced with either cheers or boos when she checks into the game, and each time she touches the ball.
In the stands, fans can be seen waving transgender flags. Others bring custom homemade signs declaring their appreciation for Cunningham using her platform to express her beliefs.
Meanwhile, despite everything going on outside the arena before and after games, and on the court, Cunningham says she’s not distracted in any way.
“At the end of the day, I come in and I do my job,” Cunningham said. “I’m here to play basketball, but I’m also here to be me, and I’m not gonna shadow that or hide or dim my light, just because maybe people don’t agree with that.”
Cunningham recognizes that she’ll never get everyone to like her, but as she says, she’s “here to be me.” Fans seem to love her for doing just that, being herself.
