American activist Riley Gaines expressed strong support for Sophie Cunningham after Cunningham publicly declared that Caitlin Clark is the true face of the WNBA. Cunningham emphasized Clark’s vital role in elevating the league’s profile, a sentiment Gaines highlighted as a rare example of female athletes openly backing one another.
Sophie Cunningham Highlights Caitlin Clark’s Impact on the WNBA
Sophie Cunningham firmly stated that Caitlin Clark is undeniably the league’s most prominent figure, challenging those who question Clark’s influence on the WNBA’s success. Cunningham’s remarks were captured in a video shared by Outkick on X, where she insisted:
“It literally like pisses me off when people are like “she’s not the face of the league” What? When people try to argue that she’s not the face of the league, or that the league would be where we’re at without her, you’re dumb as s**t.”
This bold stance underlines how essential Clark has been to the league’s development and visibility, according to Cunningham.
Riley Gaines Praises Cunningham’s Courage to Speak Out
Riley Gaines, known for her advocacy in women’s sports and her background as a former NCAA swimmer, expressed admiration for Cunningham’s straightforward support of Clark. Gaines reflected on how uncommon it is for WNBA players to make such public acknowledgments:
“The sad truth about this video that we just watched is that she is the first WNBA Player I have seen to openly say this. Out loud. And not be ashamed in declaring it. Caitlin Clark is the reason we have been talking about the WNBA, hate it or love it, it’s true.
“I think especially with women, especially with elite level athletes, there’s a lot of people, women who will stab you in the back. There’s a lot of jealousy, a lot of resentment, especially when you’re good. Sophie just seems like such a girl’s girl. I really like her. Maybe Caitlin Clark should do the next American Eagle campaign or Sophie Cunnigham.”
Gaines’s comments reflect a frustration with the sometimes hostile dynamics among female athletes, emphasizing Cunningham’s supportive and genuine nature.
Background on Riley Gaines and Her Advocacy Work
Riley Gaines, a 12-time All-American swimmer at the University of Kentucky and five-time SEC champion, entered public discourse after a controversial finish at the 2022 NCAA Championships involving transgender swimmer Lia Thomas. Following her competitive career, Gaines has become a vocal advocate for policies excluding transgender athletes from women’s sports divisions. She also hosts the podcast “Gaines for Girls,” where she discusses challenges facing women in sports and related social issues.
Gaines Marks Anniversary of Her Best-Selling Book Release
On the first anniversary of her book release, Gaines shared a reflection on Instagram, noting the national success of her publication. Her book, Swimming Against the Current: Fighting for Common Sense in a World That’s Lost Its Mind, explores her perspectives on fairness and inclusivity in women’s athletics. Gaines wrote:
“One year ago today, I released a book that became a national best-seller within weeks.”
This milestone underscores Gaines’s ongoing commitment to advocating for what she defines as fairness in sports, shaping conversations around gender and competition.
Significance of Cunningham’s Support for Clark in the WNBA
The public backing of Caitlin Clark by Sophie Cunningham, amplified by Riley Gaines’s approval, highlights a rare moment of solidarity between female athletes in highly competitive environments. Clark’s role as a key figure in the WNBA’s growth is now being more openly recognized. This acknowledgment may influence how the league promotes its star players and fosters unity among women athletes moving forward.