The Indiana Fever have been dealing with the fallout of politics impacting their team this season. Both Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham have found themselves in stories involving right wing politicians speaking in favor of them against others. While Clark has distanced herself from making any political comments, Cunningham discussing the topic of trans athletes competing in women’s sports has gone the opposite route.
United States soccer legend Megan Rapinoe recently spoke out to criticize Cunningham over taking photos with some controversial political figures:
“I don’t know Sophie, so I can only project what I see about her beliefs based on her action. Seeing a picture of her with Riley Gaines after the [Fever’s game against the Minnesota Lynx] told me everything I need to know about what’s happening. Riley Gaines has made it her life’s mission to exclude trans people from public life.
She’s directly tied to the Heritage Foundation, the authors of Project 2025 and, now, 2026, who have now published a report that suggests that they want to repeal Title IX. The very piece of legislation that allowed athletes like Sophie and myself to compete in sports. Sophie has claimed both to love trans people and support Title IX, and this is where the accountability with having a major platform is extremely important.”
Cunningham has discussed loving the trans community but making a stance that they should not be allowed in women’s sports. Rallies at various WNBA games in support of Cunningham from political figures and groups has put the league in a difficult situation.
Why Megan Rapinoe Called Out Sophie Cunningham
The photo with Riley Gaines after a WNBA game showed Cunningham posing with someone who many players in the league oppose. Gaines has been one of the loudest critics against trans athletes after she finished fifth in a swimming event that featured one trans competitor finishing ahead of her.
Cunningham took a photo with Gaines who brought signs in support of Cunningham about the trans issues. Gaines’ general right wing commentary goes against many of the LGBTQ WNBA stars, like Breanna Stewart and Brittney Griner.
The groups showing up in support of Cunningham often have signs or push a movement that goes against various other players. Rapinoe is just the latest to call out Cunningham for her actions in the recent WNBA news cycle.
Sophie Cunningham Trying To Avoid Drama
Cunningham recently dropped a quote discussing her desire to bring everything back to basketball over all the politically charged questions now. However, her photo ops and going out of her way to discuss the topic at the start started it all.
Indiana is hoping to contend for a WNBA Championship behind the leaders of Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell as All-Stars. Cunningham is a role player who comes off the bench and is expected to hit three-pointers.
A player of her caliber being at the center of drama is never good, especially since Clark is actively trying to avoid that as the franchise superstar. Cunningham will try to distance herself from controversy with just a month and change left before the postseason.
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