sports
WNBA players union restricts use of Cunningham-Bonner image by licensed brands
The WNBPA has directed its licensed partners not to use a widely circulated photograph of Sophie Cunningham pointing at DeWanna Bonner. Players retain the right to license the image independently.
Jul 20, 6:50 PM·1m read1 source
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The WNBPA has directed its licensed partners not to use a widely circulated photograph of Sophie Cunningham pointing at DeWanna Bonner. The image gained visibility after the June 24 game between the Mercury and Fever. Licensed brands covered by the union’s group licensing agreement include 2K, Breaking T, Lids, and Panini.
The union has informed those partners that they may not incorporate the photograph. Players may still enter separate sponsorship agreements for the image. The union’s group licensing deal covers name, image, and likeness rights, yet athletes can pursue individual deals when the union withholds approval.
The incident took place during a confrontation involving DeWanna Bonner and Caitlin Clark. Cunningham and Bonner had been teammates on the Fever before Bonner returned to Phoenix last July. Cunningham appeared at UFC 329 as a guest ring girl and has referenced the moment publicly.
Social-media users and the White House posted recreations of the image in late June. The Fever hold a 16-10 record and sit in sixth place after defeating the Liberty on Saturday.
