The WNBA's player union has reportedly decided against monetizing a widely circulated meme featuring Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham, citing concerns that the gesture is "derogatory."
The meme originated last month when Cunningham was seen pointing dramatically at Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner during a game. The image quickly gained popularity on social media.
According to sports business reporter Darren Rovell, the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has informed its licensed business partners, which include companies like 2K, Lids, Breaking T, and Panini, that they are not permitted to use the meme. The union justified its decision by labeling Cunningham's pointed gesture as "derogatory" because it was perceived as mocking another player.
While the union's group licensing agreement allows brands to use players' likenesses without direct negotiation, players retain the right to sign individual sponsorship deals. This means Cunningham could still potentially profit from the meme herself, provided any imagery used does not feature Indiana Fever branding. It remains unclear if she is currently pursuing such individual endorsements.
The viral moment even caught the attention of the White House, with an official X account sharing a video that juxtaposed Cunningham explaining her technical foul for the gesture with a clip of then-President Trump pointing at a camera. Cunningham commented on the White House's involvement, stating she "didn't really think twice about it," given the widespread nature of the meme's circulation.
