Cunningham Shares Personal View on WNBA Anthem Debate

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham said she personally supports military service members and takes pride in being American, while acknowledging that other people may view the national anthem differently. Her comments came during an appearance on Theo Von’s podcast as the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries drew attention for leaving the court before the anthem during the WNBA Finals. Cunningham said the practice had been happening throughout the season and was not new, though it had attracted greater attention during the championship series. She did not name either team when discussing the issue, and her remarks centered on her own reasons for honoring the anthem rather than calling for other players to share her position. She said family members had served in the military and that she felt grateful to those who serve. Cunningham added that she would continue to recognize veterans and active-duty personnel when she had the opportunity. She said her pride in where she comes from and in being an American citizen reflected her personal perspective, not necessarily that of others. The Dream and Valkyries left the court before the anthem in each of the first five Finals...