I know exactly why Sophie Cunningham is being demonized for her views on men in girls sports

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham expressed a mainstream opinion in a very compassionate way, but it’s been twisted beyond recognition by the ultra-illiberal world of women’s sports.In a long ESPN profile two weeks ago, she stated that while she wants to “extend love” to everyone, biological males identifying as women don’t belong in girl’s sports or locker rooms.About 15 years ago, this would have been the most banal statement of all time.But in 2026, Cunningham’s reality-based declaration has made her Enemy Number One in the WNBA universe, where one must only hold the approved set of progressive politics.There, the backlash has been enormous.The brave hooper is now being booed by fans, branded hateful and even called “anti-black” in a Guardian piece.All she did was answer a question from a reporter honestly.Now she must face the wrath of loud activists, who use words like “transphobe” or “bigot” to shut down a much needed discussion.Such labels — defanged by overuse — are deployed simply to launder their lunacy.It’s a lunacy that demands biological males have access to women’s spaces or sports.Cunningham’s statement is not anti-trans; it’s pro common sense.It isn’t a ring wing belief or even controversial.

It’s an opinion that cuts across political lines.Maybe it’s just the righties who have the stomach for being harassed by activists, so they are the ones most willing to speak up.Don’t ask for sanity from the league coaches.During a Sunday match up against the Fever, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wore a “trans kids belong” shirt as a response to Cunningham.And Golden State coach Natalie Nakase offered similar useless language.“I’m all about women, little girls deserving to play, and that includes trans women,” she said.

“So, I’m all about inclusivity.”Sure.But trans women aren’t women.

They are biological males and biology matters in both competition and safety.Then there’s Katie Nolan w...