Sophie Cunningham may have been ejected, fined, and hit with a flagrant 2, but she also earned a ton of respect, especially from NBA Fans. After standing up for Caitlin Clark during a chaotic Fever win on Tuesday night.
Here are 5 things you need to know about Sophie Cunningham.
1. Cunningham Has a Long Track Record of Physical Play
Sophie Cunningham didn’t suddenly become aggressive in the WNBA, she’s been bringing the heat since college. A black belt in taekwondo and a former youth football kicker, physicality has always been part of her DNA. On the court, elbows fly and bodies hit the floor. It’s not new, and it’s not subtle.
2. A Growing Rap Sheet in the WNBA
After dragging Jaycee Sheldon to the floor during a recent Fever-Sun clash, Cunningham was ejected with a flagrant two foul—her third flagrant and 12th technical in the league. Despite this history, she continues to suit up without significant consequence. Many fans are now asking: how many players get this much leeway?
3. The “Scrappy” Label Isn’t Handed Out Equally
Cunningham is often called “scrappy,” a word that carries a positive spin when applied to white players but is rarely used for others. Compare that to how Kennedy Carter, another fiery competitor, has been labeled “problematic” and pushed out of rotations. Same energy, very different treatment.
4. Her Production Isn’t Why She’s Still on Rosters
Across 182 WNBA games, Cunningham has averaged just 6.0 points per game, respectable but hardly star-level. Yet teams continue to invest in her as if she were a franchise cornerstone. Others with similar or better stats often find themselves benched. The discrepancy raises eyebrows.
5. Sophie Cunningham’s Career Reflects WNBA Double Standard
At its core, the conversation around Sophie Cunningham isn’t just about one player. It’s about how narratives of toughness and leadership are racially coded. Players of color with similar fire often don’t get the same benefit of the doubt. Whether it’s intentional or systemic, it’s a pattern fans and media alike are starting to call out.
