A gathering of both critics and supporters of Indiana guard Sophie Cunningham’s opinion on transgender participation in women’s sports took place at and around Target Center in Minneapolis. This event coincided with the game between the Fever and the Lynx. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wore a shirt stating ‘Trans kids belong’ under her jacket as she guided her team to a 108-100 victory over the Fever. Several fans in the audience also sported shirts with the message ‘Trans kids belong in sports.’
This marks the third consecutive Fever game that attracted a demonstration following Cunningham’s recent public support for excluding transgender girls and women from female sports, as expressed in an ESPN article.
Before the game, Cunningham and Reeve engaged in a dialogue at midcourt. Although Reeve did not disclose the specifics, she stated, ‘Both of us understand our platforms, and we discussed the importance of education.’ Reeve noted that while there are shared views and differing opinions, the focus is on addressing them constructively.
Cunningham faced boos from the crowd at her first touch and throughout the game.
I think we’re excellent.Caitlin Clark commented post-game, emphasizing the team’s focus on basketball. She acknowledged the need for leagues and governing bodies to find resolutions alongside their athletes. Clark highlighted the team’s priority on winning and enhancing performance, despite the loss that night.
Outside the venue, dozens gathered, some holding signs saying ‘Love is truth’ and ‘Thank you Sophie,’ while a loudspeaker echoed the phrase ‘Protect trans women.’
Speaking in Portland, Cunningham expressed her view that demonstrations against transgender participation do not distract her or her teammates from their goals. She described herself as a person filled with love and positivity, focused on inspiring the next generation through basketball.
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