Jemele Hill takes aim at Sophie Cunningham as Storm controversy grows over girls supporting women’s sports

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert continues to face intense scrutiny for her leadership missteps, especially surrounding Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark. But despite mounting criticism, some in the media are rushing to shield her.

Disgraced former ESPN commentator Jemele Hill's response to the Sophie Cunningham controversy says more about today's sports media than it does about the Indiana Fever guard.

Cunningham is under fire for defending women's sports and Hill wasted little time weighing in.

Following Indiana's 105-95 win over Seattle, a reporter questioned Fever head coach Stephanie White about a "Support Sophie Cunningham" rally outside Climate Pledge Arena.

SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM RALLY ROCKS WNBA GAME AS 'SAVE WOMEN'S SPORTS' ACTIVISTS FACE COUNTERPROTEST

A spokesperson stepped in to answer with a prepared statement from the Fever.

"Neither our organization nor Sophie had any knowledge of this demonstration and no contact with its organizers. Our only goal as a team, whether at home or away, is to win basketball games and make Fever fans for life, and we are united in that mission."

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham and Seattle Storm forward Jordan Horston watch a loose ball during the first half at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Wash., on July 28, 2026. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

Posting on X, Hill accused Cunningham of "ducking the smoke" while claiming the Fever betrayed Stephanie White and the rest of the team by shielding Cunningham from questions.

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"Just a couple weeks ago, Sophie Cunningham was asked about the negative attention the W receives and she essentially said, that's part of the