Cunningham comments divide the WNBA

Cunningham's stance ignites firestorm

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has become the lightning rod for one of the WNBA's most divisive debates after publicly opposing the participation of transgender women - born biologically male - in women's sport.

Her comments have split opinion right down the middle, drawing vocal backing from some quarters and fierce condemnation from others.

Demonstrations trail the Fever

Protests have followed the Fever across the country, with gatherings in Seattle, Portland and Minneapolis. Supporters have turned up outside arenas brandishing signs backing Cunningham's position, while counter-protesters have pushed back just as loudly. The pregame scenes have remained largely civil, though tensions are unmistakable.

High-profile flashpoints

The situation boiled over in Seattle when Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was suspended after confronting two young girls who had shown support for Cunningham. In Minneapolis, Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve made her own statement - wearing a pro-trans rights shirt and publicly criticising the Fever guard's remarks.

Both incidents underline just how deeply the issue has cut through the league, from ownership suites to the coaching bench.