Sophie Cunningham’s comments regarding transgender women in sports followed her Sunday, Aug. 2, when the Indiana Fever visited the Minnesota Lynx.
About two dozen people — a mix of Cunningham supporters and transgender women supporters — gathered outside Target Center on Sunday before the game, with signs and chanting, according to social media posts. Michele Tafoya, a former ESPN commentator and current Republican U.S. Senate candidate, was among those in the group.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wore a T-shirt supporting transgender people under a jacket. Lynx fans booed Cunningham when she entered the game in the first quarter and when she touched the ball.
Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve discusses transgender issues
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve is asked about her views on transgender women on Aug. 1 with the Fever visiting the next day.
Sophie Cunningham comments on trans women in women’s sports
Cunningham discussed her stance on trans women in sports in an ESPN profile and reiterated her position to Indianapolis media on July 22.
“It’s kind of common sense, and I think I’ll always believe in that,” Cunningham said. “I think it’s really important to protect children, and that’s little girls who are also involved in that category. So I stand on what I said, and I’ll always believe that.”
The Fever responded with a statement shortly after Cunningham’s pregame comments, reaffirming their commitment to a diverse fanbase.
“Our players are thoughtful adults with their own perspectives and voices, and those views are their own,” the team said. “We are committed to welcoming fans from every background and treating everyone with respect, and that’s what guides us as an organization.”
Seattle Storm co-owner suspended after confrontation with fans supporting Sophie Cunningham
Seattle Storm minority owner Celeste Keaton was fined and suspended by the WNBA after a confrontation with a pair of fans during a game against the Fever on July 28. She is not allowed to attend five home games.
Keaton approached the girls who were seated courtside during the Fever’s win and cursed at them. The girls showed support for Cunningham.
Several fans at the game showed support for Cunningham’s position — including a rally outside the arena prior to the game — while others supported transgender athletes. Social media showed brief confrontations inside the arena.
Portland Fire fans boo Sophie Cunningham during game against Indiana Fever
Cunningham was roundly booed when entering the game as the Fever defeated the Portland Fire on July 31. Outside the arena pregame, a couple dozen people supported Cunningham with signs.
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Fever’s game vs Lynx brought another rally, more boos for Sophie Cunningham
Reporting by Scott Horner and Chloe Peterson, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Scott Horner and Chloe Peterson, Indianapolis Star | USA TODAY Network
