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WNBA fans react to Sophie Cunningham's flagrant foul on Paige Bueckers

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham had a flagrant foul on Dallas Wings rookie star Paige Buckers that became very controversial across the WNBA fanbase.

Dustin Lewis

Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) and Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) in action during the game between the Dallas Wings and the Indiana Fever at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) and Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) in action during the game between the Dallas Wings and the Indiana Fever at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Dallas Wings snapped a four-game losing streak on Tuesday night, taking down the Indiana Fever on the road, 81-80. It didn't come without plenty of drama as the Wings nearly fumbled a 17-point lead in the final minutes.

Indiana even had a chance to win the game at the buzzer after Wings star guard Paige Bueckers missed a shot that would've put her team up three. Ultimately, Dallas was able to hang on to dispatch the Fever, who were without Caitlin Clark for the 20th time this season.

READ MORE: Caitlin Clark had to hold back Fever head coach during game against Wings

Fever's Sophie Cunningham Commits Flagrant Foul On Paige Bueckers

Paige Bueckers
Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) stands on the court Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, during the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Dallas Wings defeated the Indiana Fever, 81-80. / Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Things got heated between the two teams at certain points of the contest.

In the opening minutes, Fever guard Sophie Cunningham was penalized for a flagrant foul on Bueckers. The play wasn't overly malicious. While contesting a three-pointer, Cunningham accidentally left her foot under Bueckers.

Cunningham was whistled for a reckless closeout, resulting in Bueckers shooting three free throws and Dallas retaining the ball.

Bueckers didn't suffer an injury and went on to finish the game with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals in 35 minutes.

Cunningham put up 14 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists in 35 minutes.

The call has drawn controversy from WNBA fans.

WNBA Fans Weigh In On The Controversial Call

Sophie Cunningham
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) reacts to a call from the referee on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, during the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Dallas Wings defeated the Indiana Fever, 81-80. / Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Fans from around the league have weighed in on Cunningham's flagrant foul with some not believing the play warranted the penalty. Fever supporters were confused about the call, comparing the amount of contact that goes uncalled against Caitlin Clark.

However, based on the rules of the game, Cunningham was penalized correctly. She'll have to be careful after already being fined by the league twice this season for criticizing officiating.

Up Next For The Dallas Wings

Dallas returns to action at home against the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday, August 5. The Wings only have 11 games remaining in the regular season.

READ MORE: Dallas Wings make roster move ahead of matchup against Caitlin Clark-less Fever

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Dustin Lewis
DUSTIN LEWIS

Lewis joined NoleGameday in 2016 and is currently in the role of Editor-In-Chief. A graduate of Florida State, Lewis contributes to football, recruiting, and basketball coverage. Connect with Dustin on Twitter at @DustinLewisNG.

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