Sophie Cunningham Gets Backing From Ex-Congressman Over Sydney Sweeney Ad
Sophie Cunningham has spent much of 2026 drawing attention for comments that reach well beyond the basketball court. Her latest remarks put her in another culture-heavy conversation, this time around Sydney Sweeney and a sports-betting campaign. Cunningham’s position was not a full endorsement of the ad. She questioned parts of it while also arguing that [...]
Sophie Cunningham faced backlash over her comments regarding a Sydney Sweeney sports-betting campaign featuring provocative imagery. Cunningham expressed her disagreement with parts of the ad while also defending Sweeney's right to make her own choices. This mixed stance drew criticism from female athletes and others who felt the ad reduced women in sports to their bodies.
The controversy surrounding the ad prompted Cunningham to address it during an episode of her show on September 17, 2026. During the segment, Cunningham stated that while she disagreed with the campaign morally, she believed Sweeney had the right to express herself. She drew a distinction between her disapproval of the ad and her condemnation of Sweeney for participating in it.
Her nuanced position led to further debate and even attracted support from an unlikely source. Former Republican U.S. Representative Jason Chaffetz, now a Fox News contributor, came out in favor of Cunningham's stance. Chaffetz, who personally dislikes WNBA games, praised Cunningham's common sense approach and accused critics of disliking her for not conforming to their expectations.
Despite her remarks on the ad, Cunningham's outspoken nature continues to put her in the spotlight beyond her basketball career.
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