Sophie Cunningham’s Controversial Remarks Ignite Fierce Reactions Amid WNBA Expansion Excitement

The Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham found herself at the center of controversy this week, sparking heated discussions across sports media and social platforms. Her candid and somewhat harsh opinions on the WNBA’s planned expansion cities left fans and fellow athletes both stunned and vocal, highlighting tensions that sometimes arise when players speak out on league developments.

WNBA Expansion Plans Set the Stage

The WNBA is entering an exciting phase of growth with plans to add three new franchises over the next five years. These expansions are designed to bolster the league’s presence in key American markets and capitalize on the soaring popularity of women’s basketball.

Cleveland is slated to welcome a new WNBA team by 2028.

Detroit is expected to join the league in 2029.

Philadelphia is scheduled for entry in 2030.

These cities represent significant opportunities for growth and fan engagement. However, as is often the case with such moves, not everyone is enthusiastic about the choices. While many celebrate the expansion as a positive step forward, some voices within the league express reservations.

Sophie Cunningham’s Bold Comments Stir the Pot

During a media session on Tuesday, Cunningham made remarks that quickly grabbed headlines. When asked about the league’s expansion, she took a moment to voice her personal skepticism about two of the cities involved—Detroit and Cleveland.

“You want to listen to your players, too. Like, where do they want to play?” Cunningham said pointedly. “Where are they going to get excited to play and draw fans?… I don’t know how excited people are to be going to Detroit or [Cleveland].”

Her blunt assessment caught many off guard. Cunningham’s words were seen by some as a pragmatic evaluation, while others interpreted them as dismissive or even disrespectful to these cities and their sports fans.

Reactions from the Basketball Community

The reaction from fans and fellow athletes was swift and fierce, especially from players associated with the cities Cunningham criticized.

Donovan Mitchell and Tristan Thompson, two prominent Cleveland Cavaliers players, publicly pushed back against Cunningham’s remarks. On social media, they defended their city’s reputation and highlighted its passionate sports culture.

Mitchell’s response emphasized pride in Cleveland’s history and fanbase, while Thompson pointed to the city’s resilience and enthusiasm for basketball, countering Cunningham’s skepticism.

Detroit’s Own Responds: Dan Skipper’s Sharp Rebuttal

Not to be outdone, Detroit also responded strongly to Cunningham’s comments. Dan Skipper, offensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, took to X (formerly Twitter) to deliver a pointed message to the Indiana Fever guard.

“You ever been there? Pretty good place to play, well not for you now,” Skipper wrote, directly challenging Cunningham’s negative outlook on Detroit. His tweet resonated widely, garnering thousands of likes and retweets, and sparking a broader conversation about the city’s sports culture.

Skipper’s remark served as a reminder that Detroit has a proud sports history and a dedicated fanbase, especially known for its passionate support of teams like the Lions, Pistons, and Tigers.

Sophie Cunningham’s Performance Shines Amid Controversy

While the off-court drama unfolded, Cunningham was busy making a name for herself on the court. The Indiana Fever’s 74-59 victory over the Minnesota Lynx in the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Final was historic—it marked the Fever’s first-ever WNBA title.

Without their superstar Caitlin Clark, the Fever had to rely on team depth and strong individual performances. Cunningham, coming off the bench, was a standout contributor, showcasing her skills and leadership during crucial moments.

Cunningham scored 13 points and pulled down seven rebounds in 25 minutes of play.

She hit 3 of 5 attempts from beyond the arc, helping to stretch the Lynx defense.

Her plus-minus rating of +18 reflected the positive impact she had while on the floor.

Her ability to step up when the team needed it most proved invaluable in securing the championship.

The Stakes: More Than Just a Trophy

The Commissioner’s Cup Final is not just about the title or the trophy—it carries a substantial financial incentive that motivates players and teams alike. The winning team shares a prize pool of $500,000, a significant bonus that adds extra intensity and excitement to the competition.

For many players, these bonuses are a meaningful supplement to their earnings, reflecting the growing professionalism and financial rewards in women’s basketball.

Balancing Criticism and Team Success

Cunningham’s remarks sparked debate over player expression, city pride, and league expansion strategies. Yet, her performance in the Commissioner’s Cup showcased her commitment to the sport and to her team.

It’s clear that the Fever have a strong foundation and depth beyond their superstar players. This victory without Clark speaks volumes about their collective resilience and determination.

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Expectations

As the WNBA prepares to welcome new teams, the league and its players will need to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with growth. Players’ voices, like Cunningham’s, bring important perspectives, even if controversial.

The future of women’s basketball is bright, but it’s also complex, with city rivalries, fan engagement, and player satisfaction all playing crucial roles.

Detroit and Cleveland, despite Cunningham’s doubts, will be watched closely as they prepare to join the league, and fans will hope that the expansion will bring even more excitement and talent to the WNBA.

Final Thoughts

Sophie Cunningham’s outspoken comments about Detroit and Cleveland may have ruffled feathers, but they also sparked important conversations about the direction of the league and the experiences of its players. Meanwhile, her contributions on the court demonstrate her talent and determination to help Indiana Fever succeed.

In the end, the drama off the court cannot overshadow the historic achievement of the Fever’s Commissioner’s Cup win—proof that the team’s heart and skill are very much alive.