A lively debate unfolded at Target Center, Minneapolis, during the WNBA game between the Indiana Fever and the Minnesota Lynx. Indiana guard Sophie Cunningham’s statements on transgender participation in women’s sports sparked differing opinions.
Cheryl Reeve, Lynx coach, supported transgender inclusion by wearing a light blue shirt with the message, “Trans kids belong.” Her team secured a win with a 108-100 score against the Fever. Some fans in the audience also displayed support with T-shirts declaring, “Trans kids belong in sports.”
This marks the third successive Fever game attracting rallies following Cunningham’s recent comments in an ESPN article advocating to exclude transgender girls and women from female sports categories.
Prior to the game, Cunningham and Reeve conversed midcourt, choosing not to elaborate on their discussions. Reeve expressed their shared goal of education through their platforms, acknowledging both common ground and differences. She noted the value of meeting in person.
Cunningham faced boos from the crowd with her initial game contact. Outside, supporters gathered with signs reading, “Love is truth” and “Thank you Sophie.” A loudspeaker advocate continuously called for protection of trans women.
Following the game, Caitlin Clark addressed media queries, emphasizing the importance of league and athlete collaboration for solutions. Clark reiterated their focus on basketball and the necessity of improvement after their loss.
Remaining unperturbed, Cunningham addressed the issue in Portland, expressing her commitment to basketball and inspiring youth positively. She assured that her stance does not distract her or her teammates.