Sophie Cunningham, the WNBA guard known for her gritty play and team-first mentality, recently shared a wild story from her early days with the Phoenix Mercury. During a podcast appearance, she recounted how she ended up with a black eye while trying to shield her then-teammate Brittney Griner from an overwhelming airport crowd. The story offers a glimpse into the chaotic travel conditions that women's professional basketball players often endured.
An Airport Encounter Turns Painful
The scene unfolded in a busy public terminal, where Griner's presence drew a swarm of fans and onlookers. With no dedicated security detail, the players formed a protective ring around the 6'9" center. But in the commotion, someone carrying team luggage—a luxury designer bag worth around five thousand dollars—accidentally swung it, catching Cunningham square in the face. The impact left her with a visible black eye, a souvenir from a moment of pure instinct.
"I was just trying to make sure BG was safe," Cunningham said, recalling the chaos. "I took a hit for the team, literally." Her tone was lighthearted, but the underlying message was serious: the lack of protection for WNBA players was a real issue.
Security Gaps in Women's Sports
This incident highlights a broader problem that has plagued women's professional sports for years. Unlike their male counterparts, WNBA teams often traveled on commercial flights and navigated public spaces without comprehensive security. Players had to rely on each other in tense situations, a reality that Cunningham says has improved only recently with league-wide travel upgrades.
"We were just a bunch of women trying to get to the next game," she explained. "We didn't have the resources, so we looked out for one another." That camaraderie is a recurring theme in Cunningham's career, one that has earned her a reputation as a selfless teammate.
Defending Brittney Griner's Character
Cunningham also used the platform to push back against the negative narratives that have often surrounded Griner. Despite the media scrutiny and public judgment, Cunningham described Griner as one of the most genuine, humble, and relaxed people she's met in sports. "People don't know her," Cunningham said. "She's just a big teddy bear who loves to play basketball."
This protective instinct isn't new for Cunningham. She's been vocal about supporting her teammates, whether it's defending Angel Reese's intensity or calling for safer play in the league. Her willingness to speak out has made her a respected voice in the WNBA community.
As Cunningham enters free agency, her future with the Indiana Fever could reshape the team's dynamics. But no matter where she lands, her commitment to protecting her teammates—both on and off the court—remains unwavering.
For fans, the black eye story is more than just a funny anecdote. It's a reminder of the resilience and solidarity that define women's basketball. And for Cunningham, it's a badge of honor she wears with pride.
