Valkyries coach speaks on trans athlete inclusion amid Cunningham controversy
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 3, 2026, 7:25 PM
Last updated Aug 3, 2026
Golden State Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase addressed the ongoing debate over transgender athletes in women's sports on August 3, before a game against the Toronto Tempo. Nakase emphasized the importance of inclusivity in sports and support for trans women. Her remarks came in response to Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's prior controversial statements on the issue. Concurrently, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve displayed a pro-trans message during her team's game, while Cunningham faced backlash from fans during recent contests. WNBA star Caitlin Clark noted that her team focuses primarily on basketball despite the surrounding discussions.
- •Nakase advocates for inclusivity in sports during pregame comments
- •Cunningham has faced boos from crowds amid her controversial stance
- •Reeve supported trans rights with a pro-trans shirt during a game
- •Clark emphasizes the team's focus on basketball over social issues
- •Fans rallied outside arenas for both sides of the debate
- 7:25 PMYahoo Sports — Valkryies coach counters Sophie Cunningham on trans athletes: 'Sports is about belonging'
"Valkryies coach Natalie Nakase on Sunday addressed Sophie Cunningham's stance about trans athletes in women's sports with reporters. Caitlin Clark mostly avoided doing so.
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