WNBA faces backlash over Fever vs. Dream T-shirt incident
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:22 AM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

During a game between the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream, security mistakenly forced a mother and daughter to cover T-shirts reading 'XX-XY', prompting criticism of the WNBA's handling of the situation. The league confirmed that security acted in error, but the lack of a direct apology has raised concerns over fan expression. This incident follows recent controversy surrounding player Sophie Cunningham and her comments about transgender athletes, further complicating the league's stance on related issues. The WNBA reportedly issued an internal memo to security regarding the incident as damage control efforts continue.
- •Incident occurred during the Fever vs. Dream game on August 17, 2026.
- •Security demanded fans cover 'XX-XY' shirts, claiming an error.
- •League officials scrambled for damage control after the backlash.
- •WNBA issued an internal memo but no direct public apology was made.
- •The controversy is linked to comments made by player Sophie Cunningham.
- 1:22 AMYahoo Sports — What the WNBA privately told security after the Fever vs. Dream XX-XY incident
"The WNBA is in an even deeper hole in regards to the transgender situation after an incident during the Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream game.
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