As WNBA experiences growing acclaim, playoff adrenaline and record-setting attendance, Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham asks league, players to keep focus on important things Sophie Cunningham’s message to her colleagues and the media is simple.
The Indiana Fever guard used her own experience and personal journey to deliver that message, while talking about the changing landscape of locker rooms and how the game is reported.
Cunningham’s statements come during a defining time for the league. With the sport drawing unprecedented national media coverage, pregame preparations, social discussions, and out-of-the-court commentary have often become a huge talking point.
Cunningham stated that she understands that the players also have different backgrounds and perspectives but is glad that the league continues to promote shared respect and shared culture.
“We have a lot of women in this league and that doesn’t mean we’re all going to agree,” Cunningham said. “I think we need more unifying.”
Defining the game Cunningham said that restoring the actual action to the game is the only way to keep the league’s rapid-fire pace. That the league has exploded at the stands and the tv has become staggering with sellouts and ratings. Cunningham believes story lines off the court and individual expression is great but the real story is game.
What she says really hits home, as front offices and rosters gear up for a crucial, star-studded offseason. After a flurry of front-office shakeups at Indiana Fever-and a new ownership group taking the helm-Cunningham opens free agency as one of the most popular veteran guards on the market.
Her veteran edge, shooting ability and aggressive approach will make her a hot commodity among playoff contenders looking for toughness and leadership.
In the end, Cunningham’s plea for unity is an important one for a league in the midst of such a transformation. As the WNBA continues to grow and expand its reach and impact, a collective focus on basketball greatness can take it even higher.
