Indiana Fever guard reiterates stance against transgender athletes in women’s sports
Sophie Cunningham said she believes it is common sense to bar transgender athletes from women’s competitions, emphasizing protection of young girls and referencing Title IX, while the Fever franchise issued an inclusivity statement.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham reaffirmed her view that transgender athletes should be excluded from women’s sports, describing the position as “common sense” during a pre-game interview before the team’s 123-88 win over the Connecticut Sun. She said the stance is meant to protect “young girls in the locker room” and to uphold the rights of “biological women.”
“I said what I said. I think it’s kind of common sense… It’s really important to protect children, and that’s little girls who are also involved in that category,” Cunningham said.
Cunningham, who described herself as not particularly political, linked her view to the legacy of Title IX, noting the law’s role in expanding opportunities for women in sports. She added that her comments are not intended as hostility toward transgender individuals.
“I don’t dislike anyone… there is room to love everyone, but I’m also there to love biological women, and I think there are rights that need to be protected,” she said.
The Fever organization released a statement emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity, noting that players have independent perspectives and that the franchise welcomes fans of all backgrounds. The team has previously hosted Pride nights to support the LGBTQ+ community.
Cunningham, in her second season with Indiana, said she expects both criticism and support for her remarks and will continue to express her beliefs. She is averaging 9.3 points per game and shooting 42.9 percent from three-point range.