Sophie Cunningham Defends National Anthem and Honors American Veterans as WNBA Finals Spark Controversy

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham is making her position clear on the national anthem controversy surrounding the WNBA Finals, expressing pride in her country and appreciation for American military personnel as two championship contenders continue leaving the court during the Star-Spangled Banner.

The 30-year-old guard addressed the issue during an appearance on comedian Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast, where she discussed the decision by the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries to remain off the court during the national anthem.

Cunningham emphasized that she personally believes in honoring the United States and the men and women who have served in the military, even while acknowledging that other players may have different perspectives.

Her comments arrive as the WNBA faces renewed scrutiny over how its teams handle patriotic ceremonies, with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance among the prominent figures criticizing the practice.

The controversy intensified during the WNBA Finals after both Atlanta and Golden State repeatedly left the basketball court before the national anthem and returned after the performance concluded.

The teams followed that routine throughout the first five games of the championship series, generating widespread discussion about patriotism, respect for military service and the responsibilities of professional athletes.

Cunningham acknowledged that the practice has existed throughout the season rather than emerging exclusively during the Finals.

She explained that the controversy has attracted greater attention because the championship series has placed the teams under a national spotlight.

During the podcast, Cunningham stressed that her position comes from personal gratitude toward those who defend the country.

The Indiana guard said members of her own family have served in the military, giving her a personal appreciation for the sacrifices made by American service members.

She described military personnel as individuals who perform extraordinarily difficult duties so that Americans can enjoy their freedoms and pursue opportunities, including careers in professional sports.

Cunningham said she intends to continue publicly recognizing veterans and active-duty personnel whenever she has the opportunity.

Her comments reflected a longstanding commitment to supporting military families, rather than a position developed in response to the current controversy.

The Fever guard has repeatedly demonstrated her patriotism during pregame ceremonies, frequently standing with her hand over her heart while the national anthem plays.

Images of Cunningham honoring the anthem have circulated widely on social media, drawing attention from fans who appreciate her public displays of respect.

The Indiana Fever have remained on the court during national anthem performances throughout the season, distinguishing their routine from those followed by Atlanta and Golden State.

Cunningham also explained that players do not necessarily share identical political or cultural beliefs, even when they compete in the same professional league.

Rather than demanding that every athlete adopt her position, she encouraged greater unity and mutual understanding among WNBA players.

She made clear that honoring the flag and military service remains an important personal priority.

The debate surrounding the national anthem has also reached the White House.

President Trump criticized the practice during a recent appearance in Iowa, questioning why WNBA teams would leave the court while the national anthem was being performed.

The president compared the controversy to previous disputes involving National Football League players who protested during patriotic ceremonies.

Trump suggested that basketball fans should consider refusing to watch games if they object to the treatment of the anthem.

He argued that the NFL faced similar controversy before changes in player behavior reduced public attention to anthem demonstrations.

Vice President JD Vance also criticized the WNBA teams, expressing disappointment with their decision to leave the court during the patriotic ceremony.

The administration’s remarks have intensified public discussion of the issue at a time when the league is seeking to expand its audience and build upon recent growth in women’s basketball.

However, the teams involved have not publicly characterized their current pregame routine as a coordinated protest against the United States.

Golden State coach Natalie Nakase explained that leaving the court before the anthem has been part of the Valkyries’ preparation since the franchise began competing.

Valkyries player Gabby Williams similarly indicated that the practice was not new.

The Atlanta Dream have also followed a routine of remaining off the court during the anthem.

In 2020, the organization publicly expressed concerns about whether the national anthem represented freedom, justice and liberty equally for all Americans.

That earlier position contributed to questions about the team’s current approach, although Atlanta has not provided a detailed explanation specifically addressing its conduct during this year’s Finals.

The WNBA has historically maintained guidelines addressing player conduct during the national anthem.

The league’s written rules describe expectations for players, coaches and other personnel to stand along the sidelines or foul line during the performance.

However, the Associated Press reported that enforcement of those protocols was suspended several years ago.

As a result, the teams’ decision to leave the court has not been treated as a current rules violation.

Some WNBA organizations have followed similar routines for years, sometimes as a form of social protest and sometimes to allow additional preparation time before games.

The distinction has become important as public criticism of the Finals continues.

Cunningham’s response avoided directly accusing the Dream or Valkyries of deliberately disrespecting the country.

Instead, she focused on explaining why the national anthem carries personal significance for her.

Her remarks also highlighted the importance of military service in her family and her belief that professional athletes benefit from freedoms protected by American service members.

Cunningham has supported veterans through activities outside basketball as well.

During her annual Sophie Cunningham Basketball Classic, she has offered discounted admission to military personnel as part of a military appreciation initiative.

She has also participated in events recognizing military families and hosted veterans for special experiences at Indiana Fever games.

Those efforts have strengthened her public association with military appreciation and patriotic causes.

The guard has become one of the WNBA’s most recognizable personalities, drawing attention both for her performance on the court and her willingness to discuss controversial subjects.

Earlier this year, Cunningham also generated headlines for her views concerning transgender participation in women’s sports.

Her public statements have occasionally created disagreements within basketball circles, but she has continued expressing her positions openly.

The anthem controversy comes as Cunningham prepares for an important offseason.

She is expected to enter free agency following the 2026 season, leaving her future with the Indiana Fever uncertain.

The organization is also undergoing leadership changes after its postseason ended earlier than expected.

Despite those questions, Cunningham remains a prominent figure in discussions surrounding the WNBA’s growing national profile.

Meanwhile, the Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream are competing for the league championship.

Golden State entered Thursday’s Game 6 holding a 3-2 series advantage, putting the Valkyries one victory away from securing the title.

The championship series has attracted attention for both the basketball being played and the continuing disagreement over pregame national anthem ceremonies.

Cunningham’s comments add another prominent player’s perspective to the debate, emphasizing personal patriotism without demanding that every athlete express it in the same way.

For the Indiana guard, the issue ultimately centers on recognizing the sacrifices of American military personnel and appreciating the opportunities available in the United States.

As the WNBA continues navigating questions about its public image, political expression and national traditions, Cunningham has made clear that honoring veterans and expressing pride in her country will remain part of her identity.

Her message reflects a personal commitment to the American flag, military service and the freedoms that allow athletes to pursue their dreams on the basketball court.