### Sophie Cunningham's Controversial Comments Spark Backlash Over WNBA Expansion Cities Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham recently faced significant backlash for her comments regarding the WNBA's decision to expand into Cleveland and Detroit. Following the league's announcement of new franchises in these cities, Cunningham expressed skepticism about the excitement surrounding these locations, suggesting that players might prefer other cities like Miami, Nashville, and Kansas City. Her remarks drew ire from fans and civic leaders in both cities, prompting her to clarify her statements in the face of mounting criticism [https://www.themirror.com/sport/basketball/sophie-cunningham-forced-address-comments-1244762][https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/fevers-sophie-cunningham-clarifies-comments-on-wnba-expansion-to-detroit-cleveland-after-backlash]. ### Breakdown of the Incident and Reactions 1. **Initial Comments**: - Cunningham questioned the WNBA's choice of expansion cities, stating, "I don't know how excited people are to be going to Detroit or [Cleveland]" [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/fevers_sophie_cunningham_backpedals_on_wnba_expansion_comment/s1_13132_42411439]. - She suggested that the league should consider player preferences more seriously [https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/45646215/cleveland-detroit-accounts-push-back-sophie-cunningham-comments]. 2. **Backlash from Fans and Cities**: - Fans from Detroit and Cleveland expressed their discontent on social media, with some civic pride being showcased in their responses [https://www.ajc.com/news/2025/07/cleveland-detroit-respond-to-sophie-cunninghams-wnba-expansion-comments]. - Notably, Detroit Lions offensive lineman Dan Skipper publicly criticized Cunningham for her remarks [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/ex_mercury_player_sophie_cunningham_criticized_on_remarks_over_expansion_teams/s1_17087_42402164]. 3. **Cunningham's Clarification**: - In response to the backlash, Cunningham clarified her comments, acknowledging the historical significance of both cities in the WNBA and expressing gratitude for their past contributions [https://www.themirror.com/sport/basketball/wnba-sophie-cunningham-indiana-fever-1240186]. - She emphasized that her intention was not to disrespect the cities but to highlight the need for player input in expansion decisions [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/b9f6d45e/fevers-sophie-cunningham-clarifies-comments-on-wnba-expansion-to-cleveland-detroit]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Expansion Timeline**: The WNBA plans to add teams in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia (2030) [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/sophie-cunningham-is-no-fan-of-wnba-s-plans-to-20408737.php]. - **Public Reaction**: Social media responses from fans in both cities highlighted a strong sense of pride and support for their communities, countering Cunningham's initial skepticism [https://www.keloland.com/sports/sports-illustrated/9cc8e6a0/city-of-detroit-cleveland-roast-sophie-cunningham-for-her-comment-on-new-wnba-teams]. ### Conclusion: The Impact of Player Comments on Community Sentiment **Cunningham's comments have sparked a significant conversation about the role of player opinions in league decisions.** 1. **Initial Skepticism**: Cunningham's doubts about the excitement for expansion in Cleveland and Detroit led to widespread backlash from fans and civic leaders. 2. **Clarification and Acknowledgment**: After facing criticism, she clarified her stance, recognizing the historical importance of these cities in the WNBA. 3. **Community Response**: The strong reactions from Detroit and Cleveland fans illustrate the pride and support for their cities, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in public comments by players. This incident highlights the delicate balance athletes must maintain when discussing league decisions that impact local communities [https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/sports/wnba/cleveland-detroit-respond-sophie-cunningham-wnba-expansion-comments/3599971/?amp].