WNBA delivers denial of Sophie Cunningham’s pointing meme originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Sophie Cunningham went viral for pointing at DeWanna Bonner.
Advertisement
The WNBA doesn’t want more pointing content to come out of what already became a heavily used meme for the Indiana Fever fan favorite.
According to sports business writer Darren Rovell, the pointing can’t be used by licensed WNBA companies because it’s “derogatory.”
MORE: Sophie Cunningham is influencing the next generation
There is certainly a case to be made that the way Cunningham originally used her gesture wasn’t particularly kind.
She was mocking Bonner, a player who had abandoned the Fever midway through last season. It’s not like Cunningham was just pointing out something interesting.
Advertisement
She violated that rule that many parents tell children: “Don’t point!”
At the same time, Cunningham’s pointing has taken on a life of its own. It’s an entertaining meme. It’s a pose Cunningham’s fans do to show their appreciation of her.
It would certainly make sense for those marketing the WNBA to want to figure out a way to use the point in their content.
At least for now, apparently, that’s not allowed.
It’s a classic challenge that leagues run into now and again. How do you embrace behavior that raises the league’s viewership but may not be the best look ever for the league?
Advertisement
Cunningham’s situation isn’t too drastic, which the WNBA is likely grateful for. But it has still forced them to take this stance.
