Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham sparked a firestorm when she questioned the WNBA’s decision to place new franchises in Cleveland and Detroit. In a recent interview, the 28-year-old suggested markets such as Miami, Nashville, or Kansas City would have generated more excitement, adding that she was “not so sure” anyone was eager to play—or watch games—in those Midwestern cities. Unsurprisingly, fans in both towns have roasted her remarks ever since.
Hall-of-famer Nancy Lieberman quickly stepped in with a sharp reality check. Speaking to TMZ, the women’s-basketball icon reminded Cunningham that superstars like LeBron James and Grant Hill enjoyed thriving careers—and enormous fan support—in Cleveland and Detroit. Lieberman urged the Fever guard to experience the cities for herself, insisting she would discover just how loyal and passionate their sports communities can be.
Detroit’s official X account then delivered a point-by-point rebuttal. The city noted that its former WNBA franchise, the Detroit Shock, ranked top-five in league attendance for five straight seasons—holding the single-game record of 22,076 fans in the 2003 Finals—and that more than 775,000 visitors poured in for the 2024 NFL Draft. “Detroit is a sports town,” the post declared, predicting the same energy once the WNBA returns.
Cleveland’s social-media team chimed in as well, teasing that one of Cunningham’s own teammates “doesn’t seem to think Cleveland is too bad.” The message emphasized the city’s pride in hosting a new WNBA team and promised any player who relocates will feel the “legendary passion” of its fan base.
Cunningham can certainly double down on her stance, but insiders warn it could cost her goodwill in two markets that now feel snubbed. Whether she walks back the comments or stands firm, the episode has already cemented itself as one of the summer’s most talked-about WNBA controversies.
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