WNBA's Sophie Cunningham Attends NASCAR Race, Drawing Mixed Reactions

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham spent part of the WNBA's midseason break attending a NASCAR Cup Series race, an appearance that generated both praise and criticism on social media. Cunningham was present at the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, on Sunday, September 13, 2026. During the event, Cunningham appeared on USA Network's prerace coverage and praised the NASCAR community. "You guys are salt of the earth people," she told the audience. She also discussed the mental aspect of competition, stating, "I think I've kind of mastered that art, a little bit. I get a little feisty, if you know what I'm saying." The Indiana Fever star interacted with several prominent figures at the track. She met with drivers Ryan Blaney, Chase Elliott, Carson Hocevar, and Austin Dillon. She also crossed paths with NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon and NBA icon Michael Jordan, who is a co-owner of 23XI Racing. According to reports, Cunningham signed hats for Dillon's children and received gifts including racing jackets from Elliott and a bottle of bourbon from Blaney.