In the world of professional sports, a logo is more than just a picture; it’s a statement of identity, a symbol of values, and a crucial piece of its brand. The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has long utilized a logo that conveys athleticism and grace. However, Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham has recently ignited a league-wide conversation by suggesting it might be time for a change—a drastic one. She has proposed a new logo that would feature a player with a chipped tooth, an idea that challenges the very foundation of how the league presents itself to the world.
The proposal came directly from Cunningham, who believes the current branding doesn’t fully capture the essence of the sport. “I think we should change the logo to a chick with a chipped tooth,” she stated, reflecting on the intense physicality that defines the game. For her, a chipped tooth—an injury she has personally experienced on the court—is not a flaw but a badge of honor. It symbolizes the grit, resilience, and toughness that are required to compete at the highest level of women’s basketball.
Cunningham’s idea presents a direct challenge to the WNBA’s polished image. The current logo, a silhouette of a player in motion, is clean, dynamic, and aesthetically pleasing. It aligns with a traditional approach to marketing women’s sports, which often emphasizes elegance and finesse. Cunningham argues that this portrayal, while not inaccurate, is incomplete. She feels that the league is more than just “pretty” and that its primary symbol should reflect the battles waged on the hardwood every night.
This suggestion has sparked a broader debate about authenticity in sports branding. Should a league’s logo represent an idealized version of its athletes, or should it reflect the raw reality of the competition? By advocating for an imperfect, more rugged symbol, Cunningham is making a case for the latter. She points to her teammates and competitors as examples of fierce athletes who are unafraid of the physical demands of the game. A logo that acknowledges this reality could, in her view, resonate more deeply with players and fans alike.
The discussion is no longer just about a single image but about the entire narrative of the WNBA. As the league continues to grow in popularity, its identity is more important than ever. Cunningham’s proposal forces stakeholders to consider what message they want to send. Is the WNBA a league of graceful athletes, a league of tough warriors, or something that embraces both?
While it is uncertain if the league will formally consider a redesign, Sophie Cunningham has successfully brought a critical conversation to the forefront. Her call for a logo that celebrates imperfection and strength has provided a powerful new lens through which to view the identity of the WNBA and its incredible athletes.
