In a whirlwind of events that has rocked the WNBA, Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham has found herself at the center of a media storm — and it’s making her a star overnight.

The 2025 WNBA season has been electric, largely due to the arrival and impact of rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. However, what began as excitement around the former Iowa Hawkeye has morphed into a divisive national debate. Critics and fans alike have expressed concern over how Clark has been treated — from excessive physical play to a perceived lack of support from fellow players.

Enter Sophie Cunningham.

In a post-game interview following a heated matchup between the Mercury and the Indiana Fever, Cunningham made headlines by openly defending Clark, calling for more respect, protection, and acknowledgment of her talent.

“She’s not just a rookie. She’s a game-changer,” Cunningham said. “Whether people like it or not, Caitlin’s presence has lifted this league. We need to protect her and embrace what she brings.”

Her comments were a direct contrast to the tone taken by some veteran WNBA players, who have downplayed Clark’s contributions or seemed indifferent to the criticism surrounding her treatment on the court.

Instantly, Cunningham’s bold stance went viral.

Fans flooded social media with praise for her leadership and honesty. Hashtags like #StandWithSophie and #ProtectCaitlin began trending. Within 24 hours, Cunningham’s Instagram followers doubled, and her jersey sales spiked.

However, the blowback within league circles was immediate.

Several unnamed players reportedly felt blindsided by Cunningham’s comments, accusing her of “pandering” to the media and feeding into divisive narratives. WNBA analysts are now split — with some praising Cunningham for her courage, while others question whether she’s stoking controversy for attention.

Yet the support from the public has been overwhelming.

Former NBA players, analysts, and broadcasters took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Cunningham for her “maturity,” “vision,” and “leadership.” ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith went as far as to say, “This woman just might be the new face of accountability in the WNBA.”

Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark herself responded graciously, saying, “I appreciate Sophie standing up. It means a lot, especially coming from someone who’s been in the league and knows what it takes.”

Cunningham has since doubled down on her stance.

In a podcast appearance two days later, she clarified her position. “This isn’t about choosing sides,” she said. “It’s about growing the game and treating all players with respect — no matter who they are or how much hype they bring.”

She also called on the WNBA to “do more” in terms of officiating and consistency. “We talk about empowering women — well, that starts with having each other’s backs.”

Some critics claim this could divide locker rooms, but others believe it’s a long-overdue conversation.

The league, which has been enjoying a surge in popularity due in part to Clark’s rising profile, is now facing hard questions about unity, respect, and competitiveness.

As the Mercury continue their playoff push, Sophie Cunningham’s star is undeniably rising. What began as a single quote in defense of a teammate has become a defining moment of her career.

Whether loved or loathed, she’s captured the spotlight — and she’s not backing down.