JACKSON THOMPSON: Sophie Cunningham claims FBI is watching 20 people for her, on WNBA anthem controversy

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham says the FBI is watching approximately 20 people over concerns involving her, describing the safety challenges that have come with her and the WNBA’s growing popularity.

Cunningham also weighed in on the pattern of certain WNBA peers choosing not to stand on the court for the national anthem, which has received heightened scrutiny throughout the WNBA Finals.

Cunningham's statements came during an appearance on Theo Von’s "This Past Weekend" podcast while discussing stalking, unwanted attention and the importance of player security.

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"We’ll have to check if I’m even allowed to say this," Cunningham said.

"I like have I think 20 I think people kind of that the FBI are watching for me. Me alone"

Cunningham did not identify those individuals or explain what the agency’s involvement entails. Her estimate and description of the FBI’s role have not been independently verified.

The discussion began as Cunningham described how increased exposure has changed players’ experiences, bringing larger audiences and greater security needs.

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"People are going to know who you are, and that’s a really great thing," she said.

But Cunningham said the attention also comes with concerns that fans may not consider.

"We do have a lot of stalkers. I know I do," she said. "And like that’s a negative side of things that people don’t think about. And so you do want to feel secure."

She praised the Fever’s security arrangements, describing player protection as a significant part of the league’s changing landscape.

"I know, like, we keep saying that, but like it’s a huge — it’s a big deal," Cunningham said.

Later in the interview, Cunningham discussed her support for military service members when Von asked about what he described as teams "walking out on the anthem."

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Cunningham pointed out that certain players have not been present on the floor during the national anthem for multiple years now, but the topic has garnered renewed scrutiny as both teams in the WNBA Finals, the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries, are among the teams whose players are not on the floor during the anthem.

"We have family members who have served," she said.

Cunningham said she wants to recognize veterans and people currently serving.

"I’m going to show that support and I’m going to give them love," she said.

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"I take a lot of pride of where I come from, and I’m proud to be an American citizen," Cunningham added.

Asked about players taking collective stands, Cunningham emphasized that the league’s athletes do not share identical beliefs.

She acknowledged that other players may view the issue differently, saying, "That doesn’t mean that’s where everyone stands."