Sophie Cunningham’s Advocacy for Women’s Sports Sparks Seattle Rally

Supporters of Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham gathered outside her game against the Seattle Storm, rallying to celebrate her vocal support for women’s sports. Fans displayed signs with phrases like “Thank you Sophie,” as well as Cunningham’s quotes, “I said what I said,” and “with love is truth.” The rally highlighted Cunningham’s public stance on women’s sports.

Activist Jean Chadbourne remarked to Fox News Digital, “We proved to the world that women can gather publicly and support female athletes.” Enthusiastic fans also took photos with a life-size cutout of Cunningham. Brandi Kruse, along with fans, posed with the cutout, capturing the moment.

“We outnumbered the TRAs 10 to 1, and a very positive vibe. Everyone wanted their picture taken with the giant Sophie poster,” attendee Romy Mancini shared with Fox News Digital.

Organized by Washington podcast host Brandi Kruse, activist Amy E. Sousa, and the group Women Are Real, the rally stirred social media debates. Julie Lane, one of the event’s organizers, explained they faced online threats but still had a successful gathering.

“Despite the online threats, we showed up and had a great time. The tide is turning. People are slowly coming around. Sophie really helped push this issue,” Lane expressed to Fox News Digital.

Cunningham’s statements, made public last Tuesday with ESPN, resonate amidst the culture war over the WNBA and transgender athletes in women’s sports. “I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I’m like, ‘I never once said that,'” Cunningham said. “I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in sports.”

Reaffirming her stance, Cunningham told reporters before a game against the Connecticut Sun, “I think I said what I said. It’s common sense. Protecting children, and that includes young girls, is important… I’m not very political, but I do have beliefs. I extend love; I don’t dislike anyone.”

Her advocacy has received praise from activists like Riley Gaines, Jennifer Sey, GOP lawmakers, and the White House. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Cunningham, stating, “Men should not be playing in women’s sports. It’s ludicrous that anyone could support that.” Leavitt emphasized the public’s agreement with this stance.