Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever points during the game against the Phoenix Mercury at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 22, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Photo: Michael Hickey/Getty Images
Alain Stephens is an investigative reporter covering gun violence, arms trafficking, and federal law enforcement.
In the ever-shifting theater of America’s culture wars, conservative media has found its newest gladiatorial conscript: Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham.
It’s an unlikely promotion—and from backers who, until recently, probably couldn’t have named five WNBA players.
The reason for her esteem probably has little to do with her faultless three point precision. In an interview with ESPN, Cunningham declared she opposed transgender women—whom she referred to as “biological men”—competing in women’s sports, arguing the issue was about “protecting young girls.” Later, she cheekily doubled down on the statement, posting an outfit photo on Instagram with the caption: “I said what I said” with a saluting emoji.
