An OutKick opinion article questions whether NBA Commissioner Adam Silver should intervene in the WNBA’s response to controversy involving Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham and her views on women’s sport. It argues that the league’s handling of the issue may affect its growing public profile and its claims of inclusivity.

The dispute includes an allegation that a Seattle Storm co-owner swore at teenage fans who supported Cunningham; the co-owner was suspended and the Storm apologised. Commentary around the incident has focused on the participation of transgender athletes in female sport, while the WNBA has recently attracted increased attention and fan interest.