Sophie Cunningham’s Bold Comments Spark Controversy Amid WNBA Expansion Plans and Detroit Lions Star’s Fiery Response

In 2025, Sophie Cunningham, the outspoken guard for the Indiana Fever, has become one of the most talked-about figures in women’s basketball—not only for her impressive on-court performances but also for her candid and sometimes controversial remarks about the league and its expansion plans.

WNBA Expansion and Cunningham’s Controversial Remarks

The WNBA is gearing up for a historic expansion over the next five years, welcoming three new teams into the league. Cleveland is set to join in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030. While expansion often brings excitement and fresh opportunities, it also raises questions about fan support, market viability, and player preferences.

When asked about the expansion earlier this week, Cunningham didn’t hold back. She openly questioned the enthusiasm and fan support that these new markets, especially Cleveland and Detroit, would generate. “You also want to listen to your players, you know? Like, where do they want to play?” Cunningham said during a Tuesday interview. “How excited will they be to play and draw fans?… I don’t know how excited people will be to go to Detroit or [Cleveland].”

These remarks quickly ignited a firestorm on social media and within the broader sports community, drawing reactions from fans and fellow athletes alike. While Cunningham’s comments were interpreted by some as blunt honesty, others saw them as disrespectful to two cities with rich sports histories and passionate fanbases.

Backlash from Cleveland Cavaliers Players

Unsurprisingly, some Cleveland athletes took issue with Cunningham’s critique. Donovan Mitchell, the star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, along with former NBA player Tristan Thompson, voiced their disagreement publicly on social media platforms. They emphasized the deep-rooted basketball culture in Cleveland and expressed pride in their city’s support for sports.

Mitchell’s response underscored that the city’s fans are loyal and enthusiastic, a direct rebuttal to Cunningham’s skepticism. The exchange highlighted the sensitivity surrounding player comments about city reputations and the delicate balance between honest feedback and respect for host markets.

Detroit Lions’ Dan Skipper Fires Back

Adding fuel to the controversy, Dan Skipper, an offensive lineman for the Detroit Lions, also stepped into the fray. Skipper’s response was succinct but pointed. “Have you even been to Detroit? It’s a great place to play, but I guess not for you anymore,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter), taking direct aim at Cunningham’s apparent dismissal of Detroit as a viable basketball market.

Skipper’s words echoed a larger theme—that athletes often feel a strong connection to their cities and take criticism of their hometowns or team markets very personally. His response added another layer to the growing debate, transforming a WNBA expansion discussion into a broader conversation about athlete identity, loyalty, and respect.

Sophie Cunningham’s On-Court Brilliance

Amid the controversy, Cunningham’s performance on the court remains nothing short of stellar. On Tuesday night, the Indiana Fever clinched a historic victory against the Minnesota Lynx, winning 74-59 to capture the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup—the first major title in franchise history.

Caitlin Clark, the Fever’s superstar guard, was sidelined due to a hip injury, making Cunningham’s contribution even more critical. Coming off the bench, Cunningham put on a spectacular display, scoring 13 points and grabbing 7 rebounds in just 25 minutes of play. She nailed three out of five three-point attempts and posted a plus-minus rating of +18, demonstrating her impact on both ends of the court.

The win wasn’t just about bragging rights; it came with a significant financial reward. The team secured a $500,000 prize, a substantial motivator for the players and a milestone in the league’s growing emphasis on player compensation.

The Financial Stakes and Future Implications

The WNBA’s expansion and the increasing visibility of players like Cunningham highlight the evolving landscape of women’s professional basketball. While financial incentives like the Commissioner’s Cup prize money are a positive step, the league still faces challenges with player pay, market penetration, and fan engagement compared to other major sports leagues.

Cunningham’s frankness about expansion cities reveals a tension between business decisions and athlete experiences. Players want to feel supported and motivated by their environment, which includes the local fanbase, facilities, and city culture. Cunningham’s skepticism reflects a genuine concern about how new markets will embrace WNBA teams and whether those environments will foster player enthusiasm and career longevity.

Conclusion: A Polarizing Figure in a Transforming League

Sophie Cunningham’s 2025 season embodies the complex intersection of sports excellence, personal opinion, and public controversy. Her blunt commentary on cities like Detroit and Cleveland sparked a fierce dialogue among players, fans, and media, illustrating how athlete voices can shape narratives beyond just game stats.

While some condemn Cunningham for what they see as disrespect, others applaud her honesty in highlighting issues that are often glossed over in polished PR statements. Regardless of where one stands, her impact on and off the court is undeniable.

As the WNBA expands and grows in popularity, the dynamics between players, fans, and cities will continue to evolve. Cunningham’s outspoken nature might just be a glimpse of a new era where athletes are more vocal and involved in shaping their leagues and communities.