Nancy Lieberman, a WNBA legend, criticizes Sophie Cunningham for going viral without a shirt.
This week, WNBA Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman launched a fierce defense of Detroit, harshly criticizing Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham for her widely shared photo that highlighted the city’s appeal as a hub for league expansion. A video of Cunningham’s podcast comments, in which she joked, “I don’t know how excited people are to be going to Detroit,” along with indifferent opinions of Cleveland and Philadelphia—upcoming WNBA markets scheduled for 2026 and 2029—came to light, sparking the controversy.
Lieberman, who played for the Detroit Shock in 2008 and coached them from 1998 to 2000, spoke candidly with TMZ Sports. “You might wanna talk to LeBron, you might wanna talk to Grant Hill, Julius Erving, Chuck, Allen Iverson,” she fired, naming NBA legends from those “blue-collar” cities. Lieberman criticized Cunningham’s views as “shortsighted,” citing the “loyal fandom” she personally witnessed and crediting these areas for setting the framework for the WNBA.
Fans and Cleveland’s official account responded to the viral backlash on social media by praising the city with Caitlin Clark’s words. Cunningham, who was born in Missouri and is well-known for her audacious personality, later explained to The Next that her intention was not to disparage laborers or history, but rather to create a “off-court vibe” akin to “Broadway-style excitement.” “I would never denigrate middle-class, blue-collar workers.” “That’s where I come from,” she said, defending her inclinations toward larger markets like Miami.
Lieberman’s answer highlights a generational conflict in the rapidly expanding WNBA: honoring modest beginnings amid glitzy expansion. Her remarks serve as a reminder that legacy triumphs over trends, even as expansion drives record attendance. Lieberman even alluded to taking up coaching again in order to maintain the Motor City’s enthusiasm as the team’s comeback approaches.
Nancy Lieberman, a WNBA legend, criticizes Sophie Cunningham for going viral.
