WNBA standout Sophie Cunningham recently opened up about a puzzling difference between men’s and women’s basketball that continues to baffle her. As Cunningham prepares to enter the 2026 WNBA free agency market following the end of her contract with the Indiana Fever, she is expected to be a highly sought-after player thanks to her reputation as an outstanding shooter.
Beyond the court, Cunningham has built a significant following through her podcast, attracting listeners who aren’t necessarily basketball fans. However, her recent remarks might unintentionally reinforce negative stereotypes about women’s basketball.
During the latest episode of her podcast, ‘No Hesitation Show,’ Cunningham questioned renowned basketball trainer Drew Hanlen about why female players tend to miss so many wide-open layups, a problem less common in men’s basketball. She candidly said, “Why do women basketball players, why do we miss so many wide-open layups? It’s a joke because it does actually happen… Like wide-open layups.”
Hanlen attempted to explain the phenomenon by pointing to factors like size and strength but admitted he couldn’t fully account for the disparity in making these seemingly easy shots between the two leagues. With both men’s and women’s rims positioned at the same height, the difference might largely come down to average player heights—WNBA players average 6 feet tall, while NBA players average 6 feet 6 inches—making it generally easier for NBA athletes to score close to the rim.
By acknowledging this stereotype, Cunningham, a high-caliber WNBA athlete, risks giving critics additional ammunition to undervalue women’s basketball. Nevertheless, she spoke from her perspective as a seasoned professional sharing what she perceives as an honest observation.
Fan Take: This candid discussion highlights an important aspect of the game that often goes unnoticed and could spark conversations about training and development in women’s basketball. For WNBA fans, it emphasizes both the challenges and the potential for growth in the sport, reinforcing the need for continued support and investment in female athletes.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
