The Athletic columnist cites distractions and controversies surrounding the player as reasons for her recommendation
Category: Sports
The Indiana Fever’s 2026 season ended in disappointment, with the team eliminated in the first round of the WNBA playoffs by the Las Vegas Aces. Following this exit, a column by Candace Buckner of The Athletic has ignited a storm of debate, as she urged the franchise to part ways with guard Sophie Cunningham, citing the distractions she brings to the team.
In her October 6, 2026 column, Buckner described Cunningham as a "bench player with big opinions," arguing that her presence has become a "circus" for the Fever. Cunningham, who has been with the team for two seasons, is now an unrestricted free agent heading into December 2026. Buckner's criticism is underscored by her belief that if the Fever wish to refocus on basketball, they need to let go of Cunningham.
In her column, Buckner pointed to a series of incidents involving Cunningham, including a 22-second confrontation with Bonner that drew attention during a game. She argued that Cunningham's outspoken views, particularly her stance that transgender women should not compete in women’s sports, have overshadowed the Fever’s goals. Buckner wrote, "If the Fever ever want to go back to being a basketball team again and follow the lead of rivals openly clashing with the forces trying to hijack their league, then Cunningham has to go." This statement captures her position that Cunningham's presence is detrimental to the team's focus.
Throughout the season, Cunningham's comments have sparked demonstrations and attracted media coverage that often detracted from the Fever's performance on the court. Buckner noted that Cunningham's opinions have led to unwanted attention, including visits from controversial figures like Enes Kanter Freedom and Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, who attended games to express their views on transgender policies. Buckner criticized Cunningham for inciting these distractions, stating that they have taken away from the Fever's efforts to build a cohesive team environment.
Cunningham’s polarizing opinions have made her a lightning rod for controversy. During the 2026 season, she expressed that biological males should not compete in women’s sports during an ESPN interview, a stance that resonated with a segment of the public but also drew backlash. According to a Pew Research survey conducted in November 2025, over 70% of respondents expressed discomfort with trans athletes competing in sports aligned with their gender identity, indicating that Cunningham's views align with a broader societal sentiment.
As the Fever navigated a challenging season bolstered by the rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, the focus on Cunningham's off-court controversies became increasingly pronounced. Buckner highlighted how Cunningham's comments often shifted the narrative away from basketball, creating a challenging environment for a team that should have been celebrating Clark's achievements. Buckner's column reflects a growing concern among some commentators that the Fever's potential could be hindered by the distractions surrounding Cunningham.
Critics of Buckner's column, including fans and fellow reporters, have voiced their disagreement with her assessment. ESPN anchor Sage Steele defended Cunningham, praising her authenticity and willingness to express her beliefs. Former sports broadcaster Linda Cohn deemed Buckner's analysis as "entirely inaccurate," highlighting the potential chilling effect that punishing a player for their political views could have on open dialogue in professional sports. This backlash suggests that the conversation around Cunningham is not simply about basketball but also touches on broader societal issues.
As the Indiana Fever head into the offseason, the management faces a difficult decision: whether to retain Cunningham or pursue a different direction. With her contract expiring, the Fever's general manager must weigh the benefits of keeping a player who has become a household name against the potential distractions her presence may bring. The Fever's leadership has indicated they are considering re-signing Cunningham, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
The upcoming free agency period in December 2026 will be a decisive moment for both Cunningham and the Fever. The team has already signaled that Kelsey Mitchell is a priority, leaving Cunningham's future uncertain. Should the Fever choose to move on from her, it could mark a shift in their roster and in the team's public image, as they attempt to distance themselves from the controversies that have surrounded Cunningham.
As the discussion continues, it is uncertain how this will impact Cunningham's career moving forward. With her popularity both on and off the court, she may find opportunities elsewhere, whether in the WNBA or beyond. Buckner's column serves as a stark reminder of the challenges athletes face when their personal beliefs intersect with their professional lives.
In the coming weeks, the Fever's decision on Cunningham will likely echo through the league, prompting discussions on how personal opinions and public personas can affect a player's standing within a team. As the WNBA evolves, the balance between athletic performance and personal expression will continue to be a hot topic.