Sophie Cunningham has once again made headlines, but this time not for the best reasons. The Mercury player had a standout performance, scoring 16 points and leading her team against the Lynx, before being ejected from the game after receiving two technical fouls.
Cunningham’s first technical foul came in the fourth quarter after she argued with a referee. Her second technical was given for trash-talking fellow players Napheesa Collier and Bridget Carleton. Fans in attendance expressed their displeasure with her ejection and criticized the officials for their decision.
In addition to Cunningham, WNBA legend Diana Taurasi also contributed 16 points, but the Mercury could not overcome a rough scoring drought that allowed the Lynx to gain a significant early lead.
While Kahleah Copper added 13 points and Brittney Griner scored 10 on a tough shooting night, the Mercury couldn’t close the gap, trailing 71-52 in the final quarter. The Lynx, led by Kayla McBride’s 9 points, finished with an 89-76 victory, leaving Cunningham’s absence felt.
Following the game, Cunningham addressed her ejection in a post-game conference, acknowledging that while it was her first, she was not overly concerned. She said players have limited control over certain situations, admitting, “I can control my emotions a little bit more, but honestly, I didn’t want to. I think sometimes a team needs that.” She also suggested that the Players Association should evaluate the circumstances to foster accountability among officials.
Just days prior, Cunningham gained attention for her fashion choice, wearing a striking orange and teal mini-dress with a thigh-high slit before the game against the New York Liberty, indicating that her stylish presence is only starting. The recent loss to the Minnesota Lynx has fueled her determination to improve in future outings.