Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham is known for her candid remarks. Recently, she criticized WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson for confronting a Fever fan during Game 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The fan had pointed at Wilson, saying, “It is on you,” following a controversial foul call.
On the podcast “No Hesitation,” hosted by Cunningham and basketball trainer Drew Hanlen, Cunningham shared her thoughts on the incident. They analyzed a clip from the “Pat McAfee Show,” where one of the hosts confirmed the fan’s remark.
“Oh my God! I have so many thoughts,” Cunningham stated, emphasizing her perspective as someone who has faced criticism in sports.
Cunningham argued that athletes, especially women, call for equality and should not overreact to minor interactions with fans. “We’re gonna go for them for just pointing and saying, ‘You fouled!’? Like grow up! What are we doing?” she said.
She criticized the notion that athletes should attack fans, stressing the importance of treating athletes with respect while also expecting fans to be supportive. Cunningham believes her experience as a polarizing figure in the WNBA gives her a unique viewpoint.
“I can say this,” she noted, “because I, hands down, have probably got s— on the entire season.” She emphasized the need for athletes to appreciate their platform and accept that sports fans will sometimes be critical.
Cunningham defended the Fever fan involved, asserting, “I don’t think [the Fever fan] did absolutely anything wrong.” She suggested that Wilson’s actions warranted suspension, but acknowledged Wilson’s star status likely prevented disciplinary measures.
According to Cunningham, double standards exist in how players are treated. She mentioned that former Fever guard Sydney Colson and Amazon analyst Theresa Plaisance faced no consequences for joining the altercation.
Cunningham also clarified that her team wished for Wilson to play, believing it makes for engaging basketball. “We wanted her to play,” she stated. “I think that makes for good basketball.” She questioned the intense reaction to the fan’s gesture, attributing it to mental fragility.
The podcast also discussed how an Aces fan pointed at Lexie Hull in a separate incident, drawing comparisons to the Game 2 event. Fans and media reacted to Cunningham’s comments, showing a mix of support and disagreement.
Cunningham remains a vocal presence in player-led commentary, unafraid to express her opinions. Her teammate Raven Johnson apologized to A’ja Wilson for previous remarks, but Cunningham stands by her statements, challenging the WNBA status quo.