INDIANAPOLIS — Former Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham continues to generate debate across the sports world for her comments about transgender athletes, with one Hall of Famer publicly coming to her defense.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From my interview with Brian Urlacher last week 👇 https://t.co/pjvcVLeO88 https://t.co/f6zoEETF4G
— Ryan Morik (@RyanMorik) August 3, 2026
Pro Football Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher defended Cunningham after the WNBA player faced criticism for comments opposing transgender women competing in women’s sports. Speaking to Fox News, Urlacher praised her for maintaining her position despite the public backlash, calling her comments “common sense” and applauding her willingness to stand by her beliefs.
“She says common sense thing, and she gets so much backlash,” Urlacher said. “She’s like, ‘Men should not be playing in women’s sports.’ Why is that so contrary? I don’t get it. I don’t understand it. It’s a simple statement.”
The Hall of Famer said he respects Cunningham for refusing to retreat from her stance, even though she is around people who may not share her views.
Jul 31, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) speaks at a press conference before a game against the Portland Fire at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
“She stood by it. That’s what I love about when people say things,” he said. “Don’t back down. If you say something, stand by it. And she said it. She backed it up. She’s not backing down no matter how much heat she gets from certain people.”
Cunningham, who played six seasons with the Mercury before joining the Indiana Fever, has become one of the WNBA’s most outspoken voices on the issue. Her comments have drawn support from those who argue that women’s sports should be limited to athletes born female, while critics say such statements exclude and stigmatize transgender athletes.
Oct 30, 2005; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher argues a call with head linesman John Schleyer against Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Bears beat the Lions 19-13 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Matthew Emmons- USA TODAY Sports
The debate has become one of the most contentious topics in sports over the past several years, reaching the professional, collegiate and youth levels. Sports governing bodies have adopted different policies regarding transgender athlete eligibility, while lawmakers in numerous states have approved restrictions on participation in girls’ and women’s sports.
The issue has also become a prominent topic in national political campaigns and legal challenges.
Aug 2, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) reacts to play during a stop in the action against the Minnesota Lynx in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
Urlacher’s remarks add another high-profile voice to the public debate. The former Chicago Bears linebacker has previously spoken out on cultural and political issues, and his support for Cunningham showcases his belief that athletes should stand by their views despite public criticism.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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