During the WNBA game on Sunday, August 3rd, 2026, between the Minnesota Lynx and the Indiana Fever at the Target Center, Riley Gaines reported that an arena staffer instructed her to lower a sign that read, "Sophie, thank you — a girl mom." The staffer allegedly told Gaines the issue was that the sign contained the name of Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, while other fans were allowed to hold signs with player names.

Gaines stated she had carefully reviewed the Target Center's sign policies before entering the arena and ensured her sign met the allowed size of 11 by 17 inches, even measuring it with a ruler. She arrived at the venue around 11:40 a.m., approximately 20 minutes before tipoff.

Despite the public hostility Gaines encountered, she noted that many private interactions with fans inside the arena were supportive. She believes many attendees agreed with Cunningham's stance but were hesitant to express their support openly.

Meanwhile, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was permitted to wear a "Trans kids belong" shirt on the sideline during the game.

Sources