Supporters of Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham held a rally outside her team's game against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday to celebrate her public stance on protecting women's sports. The event also saw the presence of counterprotesters.
Attendees displayed signs with messages such as "Thank you Sophie," and quotes from Cunningham, including "I said what I said" and "with love is truth." Some fans took photos with a life-size cutout of the WNBA star.
"We proved to the world that women can gather publicly and support female athletes," activist Jean Chadbourne told Fox News Digital. Another attendee, Romy Mancini, described the atmosphere as positive, stating, "We outnumbered the TRAs 10 to 1 and a very positive vibe."
The rally was organized by Washington-based podcast host Brandi Kruse, activist Amy E. Sousa, and the activist group Women Are Real. Organizers reported facing online threats prior to the event.
"Despite the online threats we showed up and had a great time," organizer Julie Lane told Fox News Digital. "It's clear that the tide is turning. People are slowly coming around. I think Sophie really helped pushed this issue."
Cunningham's comments on the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports garnered attention last week after an interview with ESPN. She stated, "I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men."
She further elaborated on her position, telling reporters, "I think I said what I said. I think it's kind of common sense... I'll always believe in that. It's really important to protect children, and that's little girls who are also involved in that category... I'm not a very political person, but I do have beliefs. I have morals, and I'll always stand on those... I extend love, and I don't dislike anyone. I think there is room for absolutely everyone here."
Cunningham's activism has drawn praise from figures including activists Riley Gaines and Jennifer Sey, several Republican lawmakers, and the White House. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt commented on the issue, stating, "Men should not be playing in women's sports. It's completely ludicrous that anyone could support that."