WNBA union responds to backlash over Sophie Cunningham's remarks

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 11:31 PM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

WNBA union responds to backlash over Sophie Cunningham's remarks
Summary

The Women’s National Basketball Players Association issued a statement on August 7, 2026, condemning hate against the transgender community following criticism of Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham. Cunningham faced backlash after expressing her views on trans participation in women’s sports, sparking rallies supporting and opposing her stance. The union called for reporting hateful rhetoric at games and stated its commitment to protecting women’s sports while promoting transformational change. Cunningham, who clarified that she does not harbor hatred towards the trans community, continues to emphasize the importance of Title IX in protecting women’s sports. The Fever are set to play against the Chicago Sky on August 9.

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By the Numbers
  • WNBA union denounces hate against the transgender community.
  • Cunningham faced protests and support for her comments during games.
  • Union calls for reporting of hateful rhetoric at events.
  • Next game for the Fever is against the Sky on August 9.
Latest Updates
  • 11:31 PMYahoo SportsWNBA union denounces transgender hate following Sophie Cunningham backlash
What they're saying
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The Women’s National Basketball Players Association denounced “hate, abuse, and demonization” of the transgender community in a statement Friday amid public uproar over Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham’s recent stance against trans participation in women’s sports. In its statement, the union called on fans to report anyone spreading hateful rhetoric at games. It did not reference Cunningham by name or weigh in on whether trans people should be able to compete freely, but stated broadly that

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