The WNBA's Sophie Cunningham got fined $500 after defending Caitlin Clark on TikTok

WNBA player Sophie Cunningham was fined $500 for a TikTok video criticizing referees. Cunningham, who recently gained widespread recognition, has become known for her vocal defense of Indiana Fever teammate Caitlin Clark, whom she calls "the star player of the WNBA." She contends that referees fail to adequately protect Clark from fouls and rough play.

The fine stems from a TikTok video Cunningham posted as part of a trend using Sabrina Carpenter's song ("Stupid! Or is it... slow? Maybe it's... useless?"). She mouthed the lyrics while wearing a camo set, overlaying the video with text "@ some refs." The video, which remains online, has garnered 1.3 million views, with many comments supporting Cunningham and her protection of Clark, even offering to pay her fine.

Cunningham reacted to the fine sarcastically on X (formerly Twitter), posting: "I got fined $500 for this TikTok 🤣🤣 idk why this is funny to me… like ok 👍🏼 you got it bud! Cause there’s not more important things to be worried about with our league right now."

The article notes Cunningham's rise in fame, partly due to a viral incident where she shoved Connecticut Sun player Jacy Sheldon after Sheldon reportedly poked Clark in the eye. This significantly increased her social media following and jersey sales. The piece also mentions Cunningham is navigating other controversies, including being labeled "MAGA Barbie" for alleged political leanings and making dismissive comments about the WNBA's expansion plans to Detroit.