Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham stated in a recent podcast appearance that the FBI is monitoring approximately 20 individuals due to safety concerns related to her and the WNBA's increasing popularity. Cunningham made these remarks during an interview on Theo Von's "This Past Weekend" podcast.
Cunningham did not provide specific details about the individuals being monitored or the nature of the FBI's involvement. Her statements on the FBI's role have not been independently verified.
The player attributed these security measures to the heightened attention and stalking risks that accompany increased visibility for WNBA players. "People are going to know who you are, and that’s a really great thing," Cunningham said, "But… you do have a lot of stalkers. I know I do. And like that’s a negative side of things that people don’t think about. And so you do want to feel secure."
She praised the Indiana Fever's security arrangements, emphasizing player protection as a significant aspect of the league's evolving landscape. "We do have a lot of stalkers. I know I do," she added. "And like that’s a negative side of things that people don’t think about. And so you do want to feel secure."
During the interview, Cunningham also addressed the controversy surrounding players not standing for the national anthem. She expressed her support for military service members and those currently serving. "We have family members who have served," Cunningham stated, "I take a lot of pride of where I come from, and I’m proud to be an American citizen."
Cunningham noted that not all players in the league share the same views on the anthem issue, stating, "That doesn’t mean that’s where everyone stands."
The discussion about player security and national anthem stances has gained prominence as the WNBA experiences increased viewership and media attention.