WNBA fans quickly pushed back after one X account took aim at several of the league’s top players.
The backlash started when @District22FC posted a message calling out Kelsey Plum, Sophie Cunningham, Napheesa Collier, Marina Mabrey, Alyssa Thomas, and Brittney Sykes, telling them to “Shut up and dribble in 2026.” The post didn’t sit well with fans, who flooded the replies to defend the players named.
@CowboyCobraCock fired back bluntly, saying, “If you hate Caucasian players you are allowed to say that.”
If you hate Caucasian players you are allowed to say that.
— Dennis Cowlinski (@CowboyCobraCock) January 13, 2026
Others zeroed in on specific players. @montriceee_11 questioned Plum’s inclusion, adding, “Kelsey Plum shouldn’t be on this list smh.”
Not everyone fully disagreed with the post, though. @kbfever93 stood by Cunningham, writing, “Sophie makes valid comments though.. just saying.”
The timing of the debate added another layer. While some of the players mentioned are currently active in the Unrivaled league, the WNBA itself is in limbo. Earlier this week, the league and the WNBPA agreed to a moratorium on league business as negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement continue. Free agency, offers, core designations, and signings are all on hold until a new CBA is finalized.
“Now give her a 10-year contract”: WNBA fans rally behind Sophie Cunningham
As the larger CBA situation unfolded, Sophie Cunningham found herself trending for a different reason.
The Indiana Fever shared a photo of Cunningham sitting courtside during the Pacers’ game against the Boston Celtics, and fans immediately began calling for the team to keep her around.
@javierpereyra joked, “Aww. Now give her a 10-year contract worth $25 million, with $10 million guaranteed. Plus weekly tanning sessions at a spa of her choosing.”
Aww. Now give her a 10-year contract worth $25 million, with $10 million guaranteed. Plus weekly tanning sessions at a spa of her choosing.
— Righteous Dude (@javierpereyra) January 13, 2026
@WNBAlouvre added, “Bribe her with whatever it takes idc. just bring her back.”
Others were confident a return was inevitable. @The_MomSpot predicted, “She’s coming back. Everyone wants to play beside the main attraction.”
Cunningham’s popularity surged during the 2025 season after she stood up for Caitlin Clark during an on-court altercation with Jacy Sheldon. Since then, she’s become one of the Fever’s most vocal and visible supporters — and clearly, a fan favorite.
