Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele is firing back at the WNBA media, accusing them of applying a double standard to Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham. Steele's comments come amid a wave of criticism directed at Cunningham for her outspoken personality and controversial takes.
Cunningham, who averaged 7.9 points per game while shooting 41.9% from beyond the arc in 2026, has been a lightning rod for debate. Candace Buckner of The Athletic recently urged the Fever to part ways with the veteran, arguing that Cunningham's off-court antics have become a distraction. The criticism intensified after Cunningham went viral for her stance on transgender inclusion in women's sports and later called out A'ja Wilson on her podcast.
Steele, who spent over a decade as a SportsCenter anchor, took to social media to question the motives behind the attacks. "Question: would the sports/WNBA media be attacking @sophaller if she were black? Enough of the double standard," she wrote.
The debate has ignited a broader conversation about how WNBA players are covered, particularly when they embrace bold personalities. Cunningham's social media following skyrocketed after she pointed at fans during a UFC event, and her podcast has drawn millions of views. Critics argue that her provocative takes are calculated to profit from controversy, while supporters like Steele see a player unfairly targeted.
Buckner's column highlighted the potential clash between Cunningham and Fever superstar Caitlin Clark, suggesting that Cunningham's "combustible" nature could create divisions within the team. "Clark, by her presence alone, already can't get through a season without being thrown into gutter debates... Cunningham, with only a few words, introduced new divisions," Buckner wrote.
However, Fever general manager Amber Cox has publicly backed Cunningham, praising her leadership and locker-room presence. "Sophie is a really solid leader... she brings levity, but also brings a lot of experience. She's serious and is an important voice in our locker room when we need it," Cox said during the team's end-of-season press conference.
Cunningham is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and the Fever have expressed interest in re-signing her. Her on-court production, particularly her three-point shooting, makes her a valuable asset. But the off-court noise may complicate negotiations.
Steele's accusation of a double standard has struck a chord with fans, many of whom point to the differing treatment of white and Black players in the league. Others argue that Cunningham's controversies are self-inflicted and that race is irrelevant. The debate is unlikely to fade, especially as Cunningham's social media presence continues to grow.
As the WNBA offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Fever handle Cunningham's future. Whether she stays in Indiana or lands elsewhere, her polarizing persona ensures she'll remain a headline-maker. For now, Steele's comments have added another layer to a story that shows no signs of cooling down.
