League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Sophie Cunningham praised for national anthem gesture at Fever game

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:45 PM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Sophie Cunningham praised for national anthem gesture at Fever game

Summary

Sophie Cunningham received widespread praise for her gesture during the national anthem before the Indiana Fever's game against the Atlanta Dream. The anthem video, which has gone viral, shows Cunningham putting her hand on her heart while her teammates stood without similar expressions. This has sparked discussions about player actions during the anthem and led to significant backlash against the WNBA. Fans reacted strongly, expressing varying opinions on social media regarding Cunningham's display of patriotism. The Fever's recent win is overshadowed by this off-court controversy.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cunningham was the only player to place her hand on her heart.
•The Fever's game resulted in a victory, but the anthem drew more attention.
•Atlanta Dream players did not appear on the court during the anthem.
•The incident has led to varied fan reactions and backlash against the WNBA.

Latest Updates

1:45 PMYahoo Sports — Sophie Cunningham earns respect from fans as national anthem video sparks WNBA backlash

What they're saying

"
A video of the national anthem being played ahead of the Indiana Fever’s recent meeting with the Atlanta Dream has been going viral this week. The Fever came away with the win, but the on-field action has not really been the main topic of discussion in the days since.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Dream WNBA Basketball