Michael Porter Jr., a player for the Brooklyn Nets, continues to attract attention due to past comments about the WNBA and its players. In a January 2024 episode of The Pivot Podcast, Porter stated, “I know these females [WNBA players] want to get paid more… But that doesn’t mean that they’re going to get paid the same, because it’s what the people wanna watch.” This remark sparked controversy among fans of women’s basketball.
Despite mixed fan reception, Porter is known to have a positive relationship with some WNBA players, including Sophie Cunningham, who has gained significant recognition in the league after her 2025 season with the Indiana Fever. Both athletes were raised in Columbia, Missouri, and Porter has acknowledged knowing Cunningham during their upbringing.
On November 5, Cunningham attended a Nets game against the Indiana Pacers and later took a photo with Porter, sharing it on social media. Following this, a post on X (formerly Twitter) suggested they might be dating, although there is currently no evidence to confirm this relationship beyond friendship.
- Why it matters: The comments made by Porter highlight ongoing discussions regarding pay equity and recognition in women’s sports, affecting how fans and businesses approach these topics.
- The dynamics between Porter’s public image and his connections with WNBA players may influence future collaborations between men’s and women’s basketball leagues.
- The latest: Despite speculation about a romantic relationship, there is no confirmation that Porter and Cunningham are more than friends, though their interactions appear amicable.
Source: https://www.si.com/onsi/womens-fastbreak/news/sophie-cunningham-s-courtside-embrace-with-polarizing-nba-star-goes-viral-01k9ft5a5scz
Source: https://www.si.com/onsi/womens-fastbreak/news/sophie-cunningham-s-courtside-embrace-with-polarizing-nba-star-goes-viral-01k9ft5a5scz