McClure, Tracy Ask WNBA About Player Safety

Illinois State Sens. Steve McClure and Jil Tracy are asking the WNBA to provide information about steps the league is taking to protect Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham following her recent comments regarding transgender athletes in women’s sports.

McClure, R-Springfield, and Tracy, R-Quincy, sent a letter dated Aug. 5 to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressing concerns about Cunningham’s safety and asking what measures the league has in place or plans to implement to protect her.

Cunningham recently drew national attention after speaking publicly about transgender participation in women’s basketball. Her comments have prompted debate among players, coaches and others associated with the league. Engelbert has since said the WNBA will continue discussions about its eligibility policies.

In their letter, McClure and Tracy said Cunningham should be able to express her views without facing threats to her safety. The senators said they were concerned about potential threats from members of the public as well as tensions involving other players and team officials.

“We are writing to express our concern for the safety of one of your most prominent players, and we are asking what measures you have in place, or that you are planning to put in place, to protect her,” the senators wrote.

The letter described Cunningham’s position as one shared by a large portion of the American public and referenced polling that the senators said showed nearly 80% of Americans held similar views. McClure and Tracy said Cunningham has faced criticism and threats since speaking about the issue.

The senators also pointed to broader concerns surrounding player and fan safety within the WNBA and asked the league to take steps to protect Cunningham both on and off the court.

McClure and Tracy cited Illinois’ connection to the league through the Chicago Sky and the state’s recent hosting of the WNBA All-Star Game. They said players should be protected while playing at home and on the road, including during games in Illinois.

“We want to make sure players are shielded from harm on the court, at home, and on the road, including when they play in Illinois,” the senators wrote.

McClure shared the letter publicly on Aug. 6, saying he and Tracy contacted the league following Cunningham’s comments that women should not have to compete against transgender women.

The senators concluded by requesting detailed information from the WNBA about its player safety procedures and any measures being taken specifically in response to concerns involving Cunningham.