During the 2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend held in Chicago on July 28, reporters had access to 22 All-Stars and Commissioner Cathy Engelbert but did not ask about Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's recent comments regarding transgender athletes in women's sports. Cunningham had stated that biological males should not compete in girls' and women's sports, calling the protection of young girls in sports "common sense."

Cunningham emphasized her position by saying, "I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men."

Despite the inaugural WNBA Media & Innovation Summit taking place during the weekend, no public answers emerged from the league’s stars or Commissioner Engelbert regarding Cunningham’s stance. The media's silence came even though the reporters had the opportunity to cover the league seriously and address significant topics.

Additionally, a credential request submitted through the NBA/WNBA portal was denied because it was submitted 10 days after the June 16 deadline.

XX-XY Athletics founder and CEO Jennifer Sey supported Cunningham's position, noting it aligns with widespread beliefs and legal precedents despite media backlash.

In contrast, in 2024, player Caitlin Clark underwent an extensive media tour before entering the WNBA, highlighting a difference in media engagement.

Sources