Sports commentator Sarah Spain has drawn criticism for what some describe as a personal attack on WNBA player Sophie Cunningham, particularly regarding Cunningham's views on transgender athletes in women's sports and her experience with stalking.
During an episode of the "Good Game" podcast, Spain reportedly critiqued Cunningham's stance that it is "common sense" to protect young girls in sports and locker rooms from biological males. Cunningham, in a quote Spain read from an ESPN profile, stated, "I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport, who shouldn’t have to go against biological men." Spain interpreted this as Cunningham lacking empathy and only caring about herself, an interpretation that the source claims contradicted the quote itself.
Spain also addressed Cunningham's experience with stalking. According to court filings, an Indianapolis man was charged with felony stalking and intimidation after allegedly sending sexually explicit messages and threats. Spain, however, referred to the incident as Cunningham "complaining," a characterization that critics argue minimized the seriousness of the alleged offenses. The source notes that the man accused of stalking Cunningham faces charges including felony stalking and intimidation, and allegedly threatened a Pacers security executive.
Further controversy arose when Spain discussed the role of WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Spain suggested that the commissioner of a women's league might need a different, more emotionally focused role than commissioners in men's sports. This argument was reportedly met with pushback from ESPN reporter Holly Rowe, who called the idea "sexist" and questioned why women's sports should be treated differently. Rowe argued that male athletes also face abuse and criticism directed at their commissioners, and that the job itself should not fundamentally change based on the gender of the athletes.
Spain's commentary has been characterized as a double standard, particularly in light of her critique of Cunningham's position on transgender athletes. Critics argue that Spain emphasizes biological differences when it suits her argument about protecting women from perceived threats, but dismisses these differences when discussing athletic competition. The source concludes that Spain's empathy appears contingent on whether individuals align with her political views, labeling it "hypocrisy."