Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has voiced sharp concerns that have stirred a lively conversation across the WNBA and its fanbase over its controversial expansion choices.
The WNBA’s announcement of three new expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia on Monday was meant to celebrate the league’s continued growth.
But Cunningham, speaking before Tuesday’s Commissioner’s Cup game in Minneapolis, didn’t hold back in expressing her doubts about the choice of Detroit and Cleveland as expansion sites.
While she supports expanding the league, she questioned whether these cities truly capture the enthusiasm of players and fans alike.
“I don’t know how excited people are to be going to Detroit or Cleveland,” Cunningham said bluntly.
The debate over expansion and city selection
Her critique went beyond just the cities themselves. Cunningham stressed that expansion decisions should prioritize places where player interest is high and fan energy is palpable.
She highlighted cities like Miami, Nashville, and Kansas City as strong contenders, noting the underutilized arena in downtown Kansas City as an example of untapped potential.
The WNBA’s expansion plan calls for Cleveland’s franchise to launch in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030.
This focus on Midwest and East Coast cities has drawn criticism from some quarters, as it seemingly overlooks southern and western markets like Denver and Tampa, which many had expected to be front-runners.
Cunningham also warned against rushing the expansion process too quickly, cautioning that adding teams too fast could dilute talent and weaken the league’s competitive quality. Cunningham emphasized that solid market choices are just as important for sustainable growth.
The star player’s candid remarks have sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some defend her honesty as necessary for transparency, while others feel she downplays the passionate sports culture in Detroit and Cleveland.
Regardless, her comments underscore the growing desire among players to have a say in where the league expands next.
Importance of getting it right
With the WNBA experiencing increasing TV ratings, packed arenas, and a surge in star power, the stakes are high. For the league to maintain its momentum, aligning expansion efforts with player insights and market viability will be crucial.
Though the locations for the next three teams are now set, the conversation about how and where the WNBA should grow continues – and voices like Cunningham’s will remain influential in shaping that futures.
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