The Chicago Sky have issued a statement addressing a planned rally in support of Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham, scheduled to take place outside the United Center on Saturday before the two teams' game.
"The Chicago Sky are committed to providing a welcoming space for all, and we remain focused on basketball and offering fans a great experience at the United Center," the team said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. "As always, we expect that everyone will continue to follow all standard arena safety, security, media and fan code-of-conduct policies and protocols."
Saturday's game will mark the fourth rally in support of Cunningham, who recently spoke out in favor of protecting women's sports. Previous rallies have occurred ahead of Fever games in Seattle, Portland, and Minneapolis. Another demonstration is scheduled for New York on August 22.
The WNBA has recently seen increased attention on the issue of transgender participation in women's sports. The ongoing debate has intensified following statements from several head coaches and an announcement by former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom regarding his intent to declare for the WNBA draft.
The rallies supporting Cunningham have become focal points in the discussion about transgender athletes in women's sports. The Seattle event, for instance, led to disciplinary action for Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton after she allegedly made comments to Cunningham supporters.
This planned demonstration in Chicago is expected to bring the debate to another major WNBA market, and the upcoming New York rally indicates the discussions are likely to continue.