Sophie Cunningham is preparing to start her eighth WNBA season, arriving at the arena in style for the Indiana Fever’s opener against the Dallas Wings.
Cunningham’s New Contract and Team Loyalty
Cunningham, a former second-round pick, is entering her second season with the Fever after spending six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury. She signed a one-year, $665,000 contract to stay in Indiana for another season.
Despite the increased pay due to the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, Cunningham expressed a desire for a longer contract. She wrote on X that she wasn’t mad about the money but wanted more years because she loves being in Indiana. Cunningham added that she wanted to get a house so she could bring her dog and donkey to Indy with her and that she thinks they have something very special in Indiana.
Defending Caitlin Clark
Cunningham gained attention last season when she defended Caitlin Clark during a game against the Connecticut Sun. This was after Clark was poked in the eye and intentionally bumped to the ground by a Sun player. Cunningham stepped up for her teammate and committed a hard foul on one of the offenders who fouled Clark.
Cunningham’s social media following increased significantly as fans appreciated her defence of Clark. She has also been outspoken about the league’s failure to protect Clark and the resentment some players feel towards her due to her popularity.
Looking Ahead to the Season
The Indiana Fever will begin their 2026 WNBA season on Saturday afternoon against the Dallas Wings.