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WNBA Columnist Candace Buckner Faces Backlash For Urging Fever To Dump Sophie Cunningham

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham remains at the center of a contentious debate in WNBA circles, despite the team’s season having concluded. Cunningham, who delivered solid bench production this year with averages of 7.9 points per game and 41.9% shooting from three, has faced sharp criticism for her off-court statements.

Notably, she sparked outrage by expressing concerns about biological men participating in women’s sports and later clashed with A’ja Wilson on her podcast, questioning the league’s handling of fan interactions and player conduct. Meanwhile, Candace Buckner of *The Athletic* argued in a recent column that the Fever should prioritize moving past Cunningham in the upcoming offseason, citing her polarizing remarks and the potential for internal divisions with Caitlin Clark on the same roster.

Buckner highlighted Cunningham’s strategic use of social media and media appearances to build her personal brand, including a viral moment at UFC 329 where she pointed at fans during a ring-girl performance, which further amplified her profile. The column has drawn backlash from some WNBA figures, including former ESPN personalities Sage Steele and Linda Cohn, who defended Cunningham’s right to voice her opinions openly.

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