Overview

• On her "Show Me Something" podcast, Cunningham said the $1,500 fine was imposed after she called referees “inconsistent” even on routine foul calls.
• This penalty is her third this season, adding to at least $500 for a TikTok mocking officials and an undisclosed fine for a Flagrant 2 foul.
• League protocol requires emailed notices to general managers, leading to public reprimands when managers inform players of fines.
• Cunningham’s on-court role as Caitlin Clark’s enforcer and her growing social media presence have magnified criticism of WNBA officiating.
• Calls for clearer officiating guidelines and transparency have intensified as leaders negotiate collective bargaining and address player welfare.