Sophie Cunningham’s advocacy for protecting women’s sports has sparked significant controversy within the WNBA. On Sunday, Cunningham’s supporters gathered in Minnesota ahead of the Indiana Fever’s game against the Minnesota Lynx. They wore XX-XY Athletics shirts and displayed signs with messages such as “Pro-Women, Not Anti-Trans” and “Trust the Science.”
This rally was the third organized in support of Cunningham since she spoke publicly about her belief that young female athletes should not compete against biological men. However, nearby, trans activists were less inclined towards peaceful protest. Some engaged in hostile behavior, including shouting through megaphones, using slurs, and attempting to seize shirts from Cunningham’s supporters.
A video captured a moment when an activist became physically aggressive, prompting intervention by security personnel. The tense atmosphere in Minnesota continued a pattern of confrontations seen at other Fever games in Seattle and Portland.
In Seattle, an incident occurred during the first rally, when two teenage girls wearing XX-XY shirts and holding a supportive sign for Cunningham were confronted by Storm minority owner Celeste Keaton. She allegedly cursed at the girls, causing one to cry. As a result, the WNBA fined the Storm and suspended Keaton from attending five home games.
Supporters also gathered in Portland outside the Moda Center. During this rally, trans activists disrupted speakers and clashed with reporters and attendees. Inside the arena, Cunningham faced heckling and boos whenever she appeared on the court.
Despite the backlash, Cunningham remained resolute. Before the Portland game, she stated, “I’m here to play basketball, but I’m also here to be me. I’m not going to hide or dim my light just because people don’t agree.”
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