US EditionFever's Sophie Cunningham Clarifies Comments on WNBA Expansion to Detroit, Cleveland After Backlash
CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OHIO, JUL 2 – Sophie Cunningham clarified her remarks on WNBA expansion, emphasizing lifestyle preferences and player interests while acknowledging Cleveland and Detroit's historical significance to the league.
- The WNBA announced on June 30, 2025, it will expand from 13 to 18 teams by 2030, adding franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia.
- The expansion follows the league's strategy to grow its presence, reconnecting with cities that had teams before, such as Cleveland's Rockers and Detroit's Shock.
- Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham questioned the excitement for expansion to Detroit and Cleveland, sparking backlash from fans, players, and local athletes.
- Cunningham clarified on July 3 that her comments reflected personal opinion, emphasizing appreciation for those cities' contributions and desire to see teams outside NBA markets.
- The expansion reflects the WNBA's intent to broaden its fan base and explore new markets, balancing risk with the potential for unique off-court experiences.
18 Articles
18 Articles
WNBA star walks back comments after calling out league expanding to Detroit, Cleveland
Popular Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham has clarified comments she made earlier this week where she expressed disappointment with the WNBA expanding to Detroit and Cleveland.
Fever’s Sophie Cunningham Walks Back WNBA Expansion Comments
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham says people misinterpreted her comments when she seemed to imply WNBA players would not want to play in Detroit and Cleveland, two cities on tap for expansion teams in the coming years. Cunningham, 28, clarified what she meant on Thursday, July 3, explaining that she understands the role both cities played in the league’s early days, when Detroit had the Shock and Cleveland had the Rockers. “First of all, I …
WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham Issues Apology
WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham’s Life Off The Court (1:01) WNBA star Sophie Cunningham issued an official apology on Thursday afternoon.Cunningham, a 28-year-old guard for the Indiana Fever, said Tuesday that she didn't "know how excited people are to be going to Detroit or [Cleveland]," while referencing Miami, Nashville and other U.S. cities. The WNBA announced earlier this week that it would be expanding to three new cities - Detroit, Cleveland …
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
