The WNBA has issued a formal warning and an $8,000 fine to Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham following an explosive moment of on-court misconduct that has quickly gone viral.
According to league sources, Cunningham shouted “f* you**” three times directly at a referee after officials failed to call fouls during a sequence of aggressive plays involving rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. The fiery incident took place during the Fever’s most recent game, which has already been the subject of intense scrutiny among fans, commentators, and former players.
🔥 The Incident
The altercation began late in the second quarter when Fever rookie Caitlin Clark was first poked in the eye by Jacy Sheldon, followed shortly after by a forceful shove from Marina Mabrey. Both actions occurred without whistles from the officiating crew, igniting visible frustration on the Fever bench.
As Clark winced and stumbled away from the contact, Sophie Cunningham reportedly stormed toward the officials, unleashing a profane tirade in front of fans and TV cameras.
“She was defending her teammate, but she definitely crossed a line,” one league source said. “It was emotional — but the language was direct, repeated, and aimed at an official.”
💬 WNBA Statement
In a press release issued Thursday morning, the league stated:
“The WNBA has fined Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham $8,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and verbal abuse of an official during the second quarter of last night’s game. Ms. Cunningham has also been issued a formal warning regarding future conduct.”
The league added that while “passion and advocacy for teammates are part of the game,” personal attacks on officials will not be tolerated.
🏀 Player & Fan Reactions
Cunningham has not yet commented publicly, but several players across the league weighed in on social media — some defending her loyalty, others stressing the need for composure.
Fans of Caitlin Clark and the Fever, however, largely rallied behind Cunningham’s response.
“At least someone is standing up for Caitlin,” one fan posted.
“She said what we’re all thinking,” added another.
Meanwhile, the officiating in Fever games has come under mounting criticism from fans who feel Clark has been repeatedly targeted or ignored by referees.
👀 What’s Next?
The WNBA has confirmed that the play involving Jacy Sheldon’s eye poke and Marina Mabrey’s shove are under review, but has not yet announced any disciplinary action against either player.
Cunningham is expected to play in the Fever’s next game, but all eyes will be on how the league handles future physical play involving Caitlin Clark — and whether referees will be quicker to protect high-profile rookies in increasingly heated matchups.
Stay tuned for updates as the story develops and tensions continue to rise in a fiercely competitive WNBA season.
