The Indiana Fever are beginning to find their rhythm. After a slow start to the season, the Fever have steadily built momentum and currently have a 9-5 record.
They have also won their last three games. While much of the attention has been focused on the team’s resurgence on the court, one Fever player is making headlines away from basketball.
Advertisement
Sophie Cunningham Makes Her Debut as a Broadcaster
Sophie Cunningham recently made her broadcasting debut as part of USA Network’s coverage of the June 17 matchup between the New York Liberty and Chicago Sky.
In the segment, Cunningham was seen discussing the WNBA’s latest announcement to expand its regular-season schedule from 44 games to 50 games beginning with the 2027 season.
As usual, fans took to social media to react to her debut appearance.
What Was the WNBA World’s Reaction to Sophie Cunningham’s Debut?
The confidence Cunningham displayed during the broadcast did not come out of nowhere. Long before joining the WNBA, she gained experience while working in media during her college days at the University of Missouri. She has also appeared as a guest broadcaster for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns.
Advertisement
Moreover, creating content through her “Show Me Something” podcast has helped her become increasingly comfortable speaking in front of audiences. Back in March, Cunningham even revealed that she would be interested in pursuing commentary opportunities after retirement.
All of those experiences appear to be paying off. The WNBA world now seems convinced that a successful broadcasting career could be waiting for her.
“Sophie is genuinely so terrific at this…She will have a long career in media after her playing days are over,” Alex Golden from Sports Illustrated wrote, whereas another influencer wrote, “She will do great on the mic and in front of the camera as a commentator on National TV.”
The pregame panel featured analysts Renee Montgomery and Chamique Holdsclaw alongside Cunningham. Both basketball personalities have been known to criticize Cunningham in the past.
Advertisement
The dynamic led influencers to humorously describe the situation as Cunningham entering enemy territory.
“Sophie in hostile territory,” wrote one influencer, whereas another wrote, “It’s just Sophie and a bunch of haters omg… she’s a champ.”
One influencer even suggested that Cunningham could ultimately earn far more in broadcasting than she currently does as a player. As per Spotrac, she is making $665,000 this season. But the influencer believes media opportunities could become even more lucrative after retirement.
“She’s going to make much more money as a commentator (and not just limited to the WNBA) than she will actually playing,” wrote the influencer.
If the viral clip is any indication, Cunningham’s broadcasting future looks promising.
