Cunningham urges return to basketball focus

Cunningham and Reeve's civil exchange

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has opened up about a pregame conversation with Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, revealing the pair spoke candidly about their differing views on transgender athletes in women's sport.

The exchange took place before Minnesota's recent win over Indiana - a result that snapped the Fever's five-game winning streak. Cunningham said she appreciated Reeve's willingness to speak directly, noting that most people shy away from face-to-face conversations on divisive topics.

Mutual respect, not confrontation

Both shared personal stories during the discussion, and Cunningham was keen to stress that it ended on respectful terms. There was no hostility, she insisted - just two people with opposing perspectives engaging honestly.

Eyes back on the court

Cunningham's remarks on transgender participation in women's sport have drawn significant attention and criticism, but the Fever guard now wants the focus firmly back on basketball ahead of Indiana's clash with the Las Vegas Aces.

A key contributor to the Fever's strong run this season, Cunningham is eager to let her play do the talking from here.