Fans of Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham gathered outside her game against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday. The rally celebrated Cunningham’s public support for women’s sports. Supporters held signs with messages like “Thank you Sophie” and her notable phrases, “I said what I said,” and “with love is truth.” These quotes stem from her statements regarding women’s sports.
Activist Jean Chadbourne expressed to Fox News Digital, “We proved the world that women can gather publicly and support female athletes.” The support grew after Cunningham took a public stand for women’s sports recently.
Many attendees were seen taking photos with a life-sized cutout of Cunningham. The event, organized by podcast host Brandi Kruse, activist Amy E. Sousa, and the group Women Are Real, drew counterprotesters holding LGBTQ flags and signs. Romy Mancini, an attendee, claimed supporters outnumbered counterprotesters significantly.
Organizer Julie Lane revealed they faced threats online for organizing the event. “Despite online threats, we showed up and had a great time,” Lane told Fox News Digital. “It’s clear the tide is turning. Sophie helped push this issue forward.”
Cunningham’s comments on the controversy surrounding the WNBA and trans athletes in women’s sports continue to make waves. In her statement to ESPN, she clarified her stance, emphasizing love and honesty. She stated her aim to protect young girls in sports.
“I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans,” Cunningham mentioned. “I never once said that. I think with love is truth, being honest.” She reiterated her position before the Fever’s game against the Connecticut Sun, emphasizing her support for protecting children and girls in sports.
Her advocacy has received praise from figures like Riley Gaines, Jennifer Sey, GOP lawmakers, and even the White House. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Cunningham, highlighting the broad public consensus against men competing in women’s sports.
Jackson Thompson, a Fox News Digital sports reporter, covered the story with a focus on political and cultural issues in sports. His work has been acknowledged in governmental and major media outlets.