In a decision that has shaken the world of women’s professional basketball, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced on Monday, September 8, 2025, that it has ended its partnership with Stonewall, a prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. The league also implemented a controversial ban on players, including captains from teams like the Indiana Fever, from wearing rainbow armbands or other rainbow-themed imagery such as shoelaces, wristbands, or headbands during games. This move, finalized after a closed-door meeting with the captains of all 14 WNBA teams, represents a stark departure from the league’s previous stance on promoting inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community during key moments like Pride Month.

The WNBA’s Rationale

WNBA leadership explained that the decision was made to refocus the game on athletic competition and avoid what they described as “distractions” caused by visible political or social symbols. An anonymous league executive stated, “The WNBA is committed to maintaining a uniform and professional appearance on the court. This is not about taking a stance against any community but about keeping the focus on the game.” The ban applies to rainbow-themed apparel during games, although players are still permitted to express support for causes off the court, such as during press conferences or community events.

This decision mirrors a similar move by the NFL, which ended its partnership with Stonewall and prohibited rainbow imagery during games. The WNBA’s decision, however, has sparked immediate debate, with critics arguing that it represents a setback in the league’s previous efforts to foster inclusivity.

Sophie Cunningham’s Response

Sophie Cunningham, a prominent player for the Indiana Fever, was quick to speak out against the decision. Known for her leadership both on and off the court, Cunningham addressed the media shortly after the news broke, expressing disappointment while reaffirming her commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

“I’ve always believed that sports should bring people together, but this decision doesn’t sit well with me,” Cunningham said. “Wearing the rainbow armband was a simple way for us to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. It’s tough to have that taken away, especially when so many of us in the league have felt empowered by these symbols of inclusivity.”

Cunningham’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within the league, as many players had come to view the rainbow-themed apparel as an important tool for visibility and support for LGBTQ+ fans and athletes. Cunningham added that despite the league’s new rule, she and her teammates would continue to find other ways to demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity.

Player and Fan Reactions

The decision has ignited strong reactions from both players and fans. Several players, particularly those who have been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed their disappointment with the ban. An anonymous Indiana Fever player shared, “The rainbow armband was more than just a symbol; it was a way for us to stand with the community. It’s hard to see that stripped away, but we’ll continue to support everyone in other ways.”

On the other hand, some players expressed support for the league’s decision, suggesting that sports should remain neutral spaces where the focus stays on competition. They argued that while inclusivity is important, the court should not be a place for political or social messages.

Fans have taken to social media to voice their opinions, with hashtags like #WNBABansRainbow and #SupportInclusivity trending across platforms. Advocacy groups, including Stonewall, issued statements condemning the WNBA’s decision. A Stonewall spokesperson commented, “Rainbow imagery has been a powerful symbol of inclusion in sports, and this decision sends a harmful message to LGBTQ+ athletes and fans who looked to the WNBA for representation.”

Broader Implications for the WNBA and Sports

The WNBA’s decision comes at a time when many sports leagues are grappling with the balance between social advocacy and maintaining focus on competition. The WNBA had been seen as a leader in inclusivity, with players taking visible stances on various social justice issues in the past. However, this ban on rainbow-themed apparel raises concerns about whether the league is shifting its priorities away from inclusivity.

Critics argue that this decision could alienate a significant portion of the WNBA’s fanbase, particularly LGBTQ+ fans who saw the rainbow symbols as a sign of the league’s commitment to diversity. Supporters of the decision, however, contend that it reinforces the idea that sports should remain a unifying space free of divisive political or social symbols. As the debate continues, it’s clear that the future of inclusivity in sports will be shaped by how leagues like the WNBA navigate these issues.

Looking Ahead

As the WNBA moves forward, all eyes will be on how teams, players, and coaches adapt to this new policy. Sophie Cunningham and her Indiana Fever teammates may explore other ways to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community, such as through community outreach or public statements outside of the game. While the league has restricted visible support during games, it remains to be seen how players and teams will continue to champion inclusivity off the court.

This decision has sparked a broader conversation about the role of sports in social advocacy. The outcome of this debate will undoubtedly shape the WNBA’s policies for years to come and will impact how the league engages with social issues moving forward.