Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham didn’t hesitate to speak out after a tragedy shook the nation this week. Following a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis that left two children dead and 17 others injured, the 27-year-old offered her support and prayers to the grieving community.
On X, Cunningham called the attack “pure evil” and urged compassion for the victims: “Nothing but prayers for Annunciation Catholic School. Just horrific and pure evil. May everyone involved feel our love!”
For Cunningham, faith isn’t just a word-it’s woven into the way she plays the game. Dating back to her college years at Missouri, she’s been known for her pregame ritual of crossing herself before stepping onto the court. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that for her, basketball and belief go hand in hand.
FBI says shooter targeted Catholics
The FBI has confirmed that the attack is being investigated as a hate crime. Director Kash Patel told reporters the shooter, identified as Robin M. Westman, had a manifesto and disturbing online content that appeared linked to the violence. Patel said two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara added that Westman’s online activity included videos, handwritten notes, and images of weapons with chilling messages. Investigators believe the shooter had planned the timing of the content’s release around the attack.
Athletes taking a stand
Cunningham’s post may have been short, but it echoed the larger role athletes have come to play during moments of national grief. The WNBA has long been at the forefront of advocacy-whether on racial justice, gender equity, or gun violence awareness-and its players are often among the first to raise their voices.
NBA and WNBA figures alike have historically responded to tragedies with urgency and emotion. Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, for instance, went viral in 2022 for his passionate plea for gun reform following the Uvalde school shooting. Cunningham’s response to Minneapolis fits into that tradition of athletes using their platforms to speak directly to communities in pain.
Community grief, league support
In Minneapolis, the Catholic community has already come together. Vigils were held outside Annunciation Catholic School, with hundreds gathering in prayer and solidarity. Church leaders called the shooting “an attack on innocence,” urging faith and resilience as the investigation unfolds.
Within the Fever organization, players and staff are standing behind Cunningham. While the franchise has yet to issue an official statement, sources close to the team said there’s an effort to ensure she feels supported as she shares her faith publicly.
For Cunningham, basketball will go on-but so will her prayers. Her post summed it up: “May everyone involved feel our love.”
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