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Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham garnered public backing Friday from U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., following days of discussion surrounding her statements on keeping biological males from competing in women’s sports. Graham released a formal statement expressing her agreement with Cunningham’s position, which the senator characterized as an exercise in courage.
“I want to thank Sophie Cunningham for speaking out and make it clear that I could not agree more,” Graham said in her statement. The senator noted that advocating for common-sense positions has become increasingly difficult, particularly on this divisive topic.
Graham, who identified herself as a volleyball parent, drew on personal experience to reinforce her support. She cited years of attending her daughter’s competitions across South Carolina and the Southeast, claiming this exposure demonstrated the safety risks associated with biological males participating in girls’ athletics. Graham also referenced an injury sustained by a North Carolina high school volleyball player struck by a hit from a transgender athlete.
Cunningham reinforced her position Wednesday ahead of the Fever’s 123-88 victory over Connecticut, maintaining her earlier ESPN comments that protecting women’s sports reflects basic common sense. Speaking to reporters, she emphasized her commitment to safeguarding young female athletes while denying any animus toward transgender individuals.
“I think it’s really important to protect children, and that’s little girls who are also involved in that category,” Cunningham stated. She characterized her stance as consistent with Title IX’s original intent and clarified that her remarks targeted policy, not people.
The Indiana Fever organization subsequently released a statement establishing that Cunningham’s views represent her personal perspective. The team reiterated its commitment to inclusivity while affirming respect for all fans and individuals.
Transgender participation in sports has emerged as a significant policy debate nationwide. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in 2025 designed to restrict transgender athletes from girls’ and women’s sports, while the Supreme Court allowed state-level restrictions to proceed as legal challenges continue.
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