WNBA’s Most Memorable Moments: Julie Vanloo and Sophie Cunningham’s intense encounter highlights the competitiveness of the WNBA. From impressive plays to intense rivalries, the WNBA never fails to deliver.

Cameras Catch Sparks’ Julie Vanloo Playfully Choking Fever’s Sophie Cunningham—But This Time, It Ends With Laughter

Los Angeles Sparks point guard Julie Vanloo brought some unexpected comedy to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday, when cameras caught her briefly choking Indiana Fever’s enforcer, Sophie Cunningham, during a first-quarter scramble for a loose ball.

The moment instantly drew attention—not just for its physicality, but for the hilarious twist that followed. Just last month, Cunningham herself made headlines for a much more heated altercation. On June 17, she was fined $400 for putting Connecticut Sun’s Jacy Sheldon in a chokehold after Sheldon fouled Fever superstar Caitlin Clark, hitting Clark in the eye. Cunningham’s aggressive response triggered a mini-brawl and earned her a Flagrant 2 foul, though she managed to avoid a suspension.

Sophie Cunningham clarifies comments about WNBA expanding to Detroit, Cleveland - pennlive.com

Fast forward to this weekend’s matchup, and it seems Vanloo decided to give Cunningham a taste of her own medicine. As the two battled for possession, Vanloo playfully wrapped her arm around Cunningham’s neck. But instead of sparking another scuffle, both players burst out laughing—a stark contrast to the tension-filled incident last month.

The friendly exchange quickly went viral, with fans and commentators praising the sportsmanship and humor on display. It’s a refreshing reminder that even in the heat of competition, players can find reasons to smile.

Meanwhile, Sophie Cunningham continues to make an impact in her first season with the Indiana Fever. Acquired in a blockbuster four-team trade back in January, Cunningham has embraced her role as the team’s unofficial enforcer, standing up for her teammates—especially Caitlin Clark, who’s faced plenty of rough defense from opponents this season.

Sophie Cunningham in uniform

Off the court, Cunningham has also become a social media sensation. Whether she’s celebrating a Commissioner’s Cup win with some viral dance moves or posing in a tiny orange bikini with a massive barracuda, Cunningham knows how to keep fans entertained.

For now, though, it’s her lighthearted moment with Vanloo that has everyone talking—a sign that sometimes, the best rivalries end with a laugh.