The Indiana Fever face scrutiny after Brianna Turner, a former player, accused the team of firing a male staff member due to sexual harassment allegations during her tenure. These remarks emerged in response to Sophie Cunningham’s comments about trans athletes.
Turner, who played for the Fever in 2025 and now competes with the Las Vegas Aces, voiced her claims on social media. This followed Cunningham’s defense of women’s sports as being solely for biological females during an ESPN interview. Cunningham emphasized her desire to protect young girls in sports environments from competing against biological men.
Brianna Turner #11 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket against the Las Vegas Aces during Round 2 Game 4 of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs on Sept. 28, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Ind. (NBAE via Getty Images)
Turner challenged Cunningham’s viewpoint by asserting that organizations like the Fever pose a greater threat to women’s sports than trans athletes. Turner alleges that the Fever fired a male staff member following claims of sexual harassment but instructed players to remain silent about the incident.
Brianna Turner #11 of the Indiana Fever looks on during Round One Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs against the Las Vegas Aces on Sept. 23, 2025, at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. (NBAE via Getty Images)
Turner vigorously supported the inclusion of transgender athletes, referencing former WNBA player Layshia Clarendon, who identifies as transgender. Turner noted that only one openly trans player exists in the league and expressed that their participation hasn’t caused issues.
Turner contrasted these remarks with the alleged behavior of the team’s former staff member, stating that sexism, misogyny, homophobia, and racism are prevalent issues.
Brianna Turner #21 of the Las Vegas Aces gets ready to throw autographed T-shirts to fans after the Aces’ 99-84 victory over the Dallas Wings at Michelob ULTRA Arena on June 25, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nev. (Getty Images)
In response to Turner’s claims, the Indiana Fever released a statement emphasizing their commitment to protecting players and employees while ensuring a respectful workplace. They detailed their approach to handling concerns which includes serious investigations and taking appropriate action.
The Fever stated, “Fostering trust and safety in our process means we do not comment on personnel matters involving former employees.”
It remains uncertain if the WNBA will examine Turner’s allegations further. As of Thursday, the league has not announced any investigation or provided public comments.