Sophie Cunningham is currently one of the most polarizing athletes in the world of sports. Her presence divides fans, evident during the Indiana Fever’s game in Portland against the WNBA’s new team, the Portland Fire. Cunningham’s outspoken support for maintaining female-only spaces in women’s sports has drawn attention and controversy.
The debate became prominent when the Fever played in Seattle, drawing demonstrators both supporting and opposing Cunningham. Outside the Seattle arena, a women’s rights group organized a rally supporting Cunningham. The event faced backlash when Celeste Keaton, co-owner of the Seattle Storm, publicly criticized spectators wearing “XX-XY Athletics” shirts. A Nordstrom store director also verbally attacked those supporting Cunningham. Nordstrom hasn’t commented publicly.
The ‘With Love Is Truth’ series started on July 28, 2026, organized by women’s rights groups outside Climate Pledge Arena. The rally aimed to advocate for female athletes and commend Cunningham’s vocal stance. Amy E. Sousa, a women’s rights advocate, expressed solidarity with the young girls who faced harassment in Seattle, along with Cunningham.
Former Olympian Inga Thompson and attorney Kara Dansky joined Sousa at the Moda Center in Portland. They represented organizations like Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender and Women’s Declaration International USA, gathering support before the game.
During the event, trans rights advocates protested Cunningham’s supporters. A protester in a “Protect Trans Kids” shirt interrupted Sousa’s speech. The shirts, popularized by figures like Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, symbolize a commitment to safeguarding trans children.
Some protesters responded negatively when questioned about their stance on men participating in women’s sports. Despite the tension, Cunningham continues to play, stating, “I’m here to play basketball, but I’m also here to be me.”
Inside the arena, Cunningham faced boos from fans promoting various pride flags. The tension was palpable, as attendees expressed their opposition to her views. The interaction between fans and players highlighted the ongoing debate within the sports world.
The next rally is scheduled in Minnesota as the Fever face the Minnesota Lynx.
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