Sophie Cunningham's viral pointing meme, stemming from a skirmish during the Indiana Fever's game against the Phoenix Mercury on June 22, has garnered immense popularity, but the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has decided to prohibit its use by business partners. This decision, announced by sports business reporter Darren Rovell, has sparked widespread discussion and prompted a response from the WNBPA.

The incident occurred when Cunningham pointed at DeWanna Bonner during a confrontation that resulted in multiple technical fouls for players from both teams. Reflecting on the moment, Cunningham admitted on her podcast, "Show Me Something," that her actions were impulsive and unintendedly provocative. She described the situation as "stupid" but acknowledged it fueled her competitive spirit.

The meme's popularity has since exploded, transcending social media. It has been featured in various platforms, including podcasts and even UFC events, with fans enthusiastically recreating the moment during games and camps. Cunningham expressed her surprise at the meme's reach, noting that it became a fun activity for kids at her recent camp.

Despite the meme's success, the WNBPA maintains strict guidelines on licensing agreements, stating they do not want to profit from player confrontations. A spokesperson explained that the association typically avoids monetizing such player conduct in licensed apparel. However, Cunningham has the option to license the meme independently, should she choose to do so.

This situation parallels a past incident involving Cunningham when Kahleah Copper famously sold merchandise featuring their confrontation during the 2021 Finals. While that shirt is no longer available, it highlights the complexities of player conduct and licensing in sports.