The WNBA is embroiled in yet another controversy, this time involving Phoenix Mercury teammates Sophie Cunningham and Brittney Griner. Following a storm of backlash over Griner’s alleged racial comments toward Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, Cunningham has taken a bold stand, publicly labeling Griner as “a rude and racist person.” The accusation, aired during a recent press conference, has intensified scrutiny on Griner and raised questions about team dynamics, league accountability, and the ongoing tensions surrounding Clark’s rookie season.
The incident stems from a June 2024 game between the Mercury and Fever, where Griner, after fouling out, was caught on camera muttering words that some fans and lip-readers interpreted as a racial slur directed at Clark, calling her a “trash f—ing white girl.” Others argue the comment was misheard, possibly targeting the referees over a “wack call.” The viral clip sparked outrage, with social media posts demanding Griner’s suspension for violating WNBA conduct policies. The league has not confirmed disciplinary action, but the controversy has taken a new turn with Cunningham’s explosive remarks.
Cunningham, known for her fiery on-court presence, didn’t hold back when addressing Griner’s behavior. “Brittney Griner is a rude and racist person,” she stated, hinting at a personal experience without elaborating. Her decision to call out a teammate publicly is rare in the tight-knit WNBA, suggesting deep-seated frustrations. Sources close to the Mercury indicate that Griner’s demeanor has occasionally caused friction within the team, though specifics remain scarce. Cunningham’s comments have fueled speculation about a rift, especially as the Mercury navigate a challenging season.
Caitlin Clark, the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year, has faced intense physicality this season, ranking among the league’s most-fouled players. Her meteoric rise, averaging 19.2 points and 8.4 assists per game, has made her a target for both admiration and criticism. The Griner incident, coupled with Cunningham’s accusations, has amplified discussions about race and rivalry in the WNBA. Some fans on X argue that Griner’s alleged comments reflect deeper issues, while others defend her, citing her advocacy and character, including her resilience after her 2022 detention in Russia.
The WNBA’s response remains pending, but the league’s history of addressing misconduct—such as Chennedy Carter’s recent one-month suspension for a separate incident involving Clark—suggests Griner could face penalties if the allegations are substantiated. Cunningham’s public stance adds pressure, as her comments risk fracturing team chemistry. Meanwhile, Clark has stayed focused on her game, helping the Fever push for a playoff spot while avoiding direct engagement with the controversy.
This saga underscores the WNBA’s complex dynamics, where personal rivalries, team loyalties, and societal issues intersect. Cunningham’s decision to speak out may signal a call for accountability, but it also raises questions about whether her accusations will hold up under scrutiny. Was Griner’s comment a misunderstanding, or does it reflect a pattern, as Cunningham implies? As the league investigates, fans are left parsing viral clips and awaiting clarity. The fallout from this controversy could reshape perceptions of Griner, Cunningham, and the WNBA’s handling of such incidents, marking a pivotal moment in the 2025 season.
