WNBA player Sophie Cunningham experienced a warm reception at the NASCAR Cup Series Enjoy Illinois 300, meeting drivers and team owners, including NASCAR veteran Jeff Gordon and Michael Jordan. Cunningham, a reserve for the Indiana Fever, expressed her enjoyment of the experience, telling the NASCAR on USA panel, "You guys truly are amazing, and I've had a heck of a day and it's been a lot of fun."
However, Richard Childress Racing driver Austin Dillon articulated a particular reason for his admiration. "We're huge fans," Dillon told Cunningham before the race. "We love what you stand for. That's the biggest thing." While Dillon did not elaborate on which specific beliefs he supported, Cunningham, 30, has become a figure embraced by conservatives for her public objections to transgender athletes participating in women's sports.
Dillon himself is known for his conservative political views and has publicly supported former President Donald Trump. His team has also displayed decals supporting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Cunningham also addressed recent media attention, including an interview with Colin Cowherd, who described her as the WNBA's "sex symbol." Responding to the label, Cunningham stated, "All I'm saying, for all the little girls out there, that if you want to play a sport, you can still be girly, you can still go out there and kick ass, sweat, work hard, and you can still look a certain way. So, go do your thing."
During her visit, Cunningham interacted with several drivers, including Dillon, Chase Elliott, and Ryan Blaney. She signed hats for Dillon's children and received a bottle of bourbon from Blaney. Cunningham was seen sporting a pit-road outfit of black leather shorts and a matching tank top.
"We're here in Illinois with NASCAR. It's been the best day in my entire life," Cunningham said. "I feel like these are my people. I belong here."
With the FIBA World Cup concluded, the Indiana Fever are set to resume their season on Friday, traveling to Toronto to play the Tempo. The Fever currently hold a 26-14 record, placing them fifth in the standings.
In the NASCAR race, Austin Dillon finished sixth, with Kyle Larson securing the win.