WNBA guard Sophie Cunningham was greeted with warmth from some of NASCAR's biggest names on Sunday, meeting Hall of Fame driver Jeff Gordon and team owner Michael Jordan at the NASCAR Cup Series Enjoy Illinois 300.
The Indiana Fever reserve, speaking to the NASCAR on USA panel before the race at WWT Raceway east of St. Louis, said: "You guys are salt of the earth people. It's been really cool to talk to them about racing cars and whatnot, but also just getting to know them outside of the track. You guys truly are amazing, and I've had a heck of a day and it's been a lot of fun."
Richard Childress Racing driver Austin Dillon was especially eager to meet her. "We're huge fans," he told Cunningham in one online clip. "We love what you stand for. That's the biggest thing."
Dillon did not say which of Cunningham's beliefs he was referring to. The 30-year-old Missouri native has become popular among conservatives for her public objections to transgender athletes competing in women's sports.
Dillon's conservative profile
Dillon is known for his own conservative politics. He has publicly supported Republican President Donald Trump, and he and his team displayed Charlie Kirk decals after the conservative podcaster's murder last year.
A 'sex symbol' comment
Other fans wanted to discuss Cunningham's recent interview with sports commentator Colin Cowherd, who described her as the WNBA's "sex symbol." Asked about the description by Kenny Wallace in the pre-race fan zone, Cunningham did not shy away from it.
"All I'm saying, for all the little girls out there, that if you want to play a sport, you can still be girly, you can still go out there and kick ass, sweat, work hard, and you can still look a certain way," Cunningham said. "So, go do your thing."
Meeting the field
Cunningham met much of the NASCAR grid on Sunday, including Dillon, Chase Elliott and Ryan Blaney. She signed hats for Dillon's children and received a bottle of bourbon from Blaney, according to USA Today.
She also showed off her pit-road outfit, black leather shorts and a matching tank top, before making clear how much she enjoyed the day. "We're here in Illinois with NASCAR. It's been the best day in my entire life," Cunningham said. "I feel like these are my people. I belong here."
What's next
With the FIBA World Cup now finished, the Fever return to action on Friday when they travel to Toronto to face the Tempo. Indiana is currently fifth in the standings at 26-14.
Dillon finished sixth in Sunday's race, while Kyle Larson took the win.
