Sophison Cunningham gets mixed reception as rally and fine mark WNBA's Toronto debut

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham scored 13 points in her team's 101-95 victory over the Toronto Tempo at Scotiabank Arena on August 18, 2026, but the game was overshadowed by events outside the venue related to her public stance on transgender athletes in women's sports. A rally in her support was held beforehand, and Toronto police issued fines for a mobile billboard displaying messages about fairness in sports.

The gathering outside the arena was organized by Canadian powerlifter April Hutchinson, who described it as a "pep rally" of support for Cunningham. Attendees held signs with messages like "With love is truth" and "Thank you Sophie." Hutchinson stated that Toronto police contacted her prior to the event to get details and ensure safety. The group was accompanied by a rented truck featuring a digital billboard with images and clips of athletes, including tennis legend Martina Navratilova, promoting fairness in women's sports.

Police issued a ticket and a $615 fine to the driver of the billboard truck. According to reports, officers claimed the broadcast violated a municipal bylaw. Hutchinson told media that when an officer was put on the phone with her, they...