Ex-teammate of WNBA Player Sophie Cunningham Tells White Athletes to 'Shut Up' on Transgender Debate

Former Indiana Fever player Sydney Colson has directly addressed white athletes in the WNBA regarding the ongoing debate about transgender inclusion in women's sports. Colson, who played alongside Sophie Cunningham and Caitlin Clark during the 2025 WNBA season, stated on her podcast that white players who remain silent or make harmful comments on the issue are not respected.

"For the white players in the league, when you don't say s***, and even worse, when you say things that are harmful, talking about the trans s***, nobody respects you," Colson said. "Shut the f*** up. Shut the f*** up. Nobody wants to hear your opinion. Freedom of speech, so you can say it, but just know people are trying to get by when they're dealing with you."

Cunningham ignited controversy in July after an interview with ESPN where she expressed the view that young girls should not have to compete against transgender athletes. She later reiterated her stance, calling it "common sense" and stating she would "never falter" in her beliefs.

Cunningham's remarks have led to protests and divided opinions within the WNBA community. Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve notably wore a "Trans kids belong" T-shirt in August in response to Cunningham's statements.

Colson also appeared to celebrate an aggressive foul by DiJonai Carrington on Cunningham during a game in August. Carrington was ejected for the play, which involved hitting Cunningham in the head and neck area. Both Cunningham and Clark were seen waving as Carrington left the court. Colson posted on social media after the incident, "I love a trans foul."

Following her ejection, Carrington posted on social media, "WHITE PRIVILEGE @indianafever." Cameras also captured Cunningham smiling and clapping after the officials' decision, despite earlier footage appearing to show her verbally confronting Carrington.