By Mmesoma 
The Motor City pride took a direct hit this week when WNBA star Sophie Cunningham made unflattering remarks about Detroit — and the NFL’s Detroit Lions weren’t having it.
During a postgame interview after her team’s recent matchup against the Detroit-based WNBA team, Cunningham quipped, “I love competing, but I can’t wait to get out of Detroit. The vibe’s just off here — gloomy, rundown, not my kind of place.”
The comment quickly ignited backlash online, with Detroit natives and fans defending their city. But it was the Detroit Lions who delivered the most pointed response.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Lions’ official account posted,
“The vibe may be off for you, Sophie — but our city is built different. Heart. Hustle. Legacy. That’s Detroit.”
The post included a highlight reel of the city’s most iconic moments, from Barry Sanders breaking tackles to Eminem performing at Ford Field, along with scenes of revitalized downtown areas, bustling neighborhoods, and passionate Detroit sports fans.
Several Lions players chimed in as well. Star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown tweeted,
“Detroit shows up. For our teams. For our people. Say what you want — we know who we are.”
Rookie linebacker Jaylen McCoy added, “You don’t diss a city that’s been through the fire and came out stronger. This place is special. Period.”
The viral exchange has sparked a broader conversation online about respect for cities often unfairly criticized in national media. Many fans pointed out Detroit’s progress in recent years — from new development and booming sports attendance to its fierce local pride.
In response to the backlash, Cunningham attempted to clarify her comments, posting on Instagram:
“Didn’t mean to offend — every city has its unique energy. I’ve always respected Detroit’s legacy and grit.”
But for many in Detroit, the damage was already done.
Local fan Kendra Brooks, wearing a Lions jersey outside Ford Field, summed it up:
“You don’t have to love Detroit, but don’t disrespect it. We’ve built greatness from the ground up. The Lions showed her that loud and clear.”
As preseason football approaches, the Lions are not only defending their turf on the field — they’re defending their city’s name with pride and purpose.