Last season was a career-defining year for Sophie Cunningham after the Indiana Fever acquired her in a February trade with the Phoenix Mercury. She produced her most efficient numbers before a late-season injury, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.0 steals per game.
She earned the “Enforcer” tag following a highly publicized physical altercation during a game against the Connecticut Sun on June 17 to protect her teammate Caitlin Clark. Her chemistry with Clark and Lexie Hull was a major fan storyline, and they were widely nicknamed “Tres Leches.”
Advertisement
However, now she is enjoying her WNBA offseason on a beach, and the internet has questions.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) celebrates a three point shot during a game.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
(Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
On her Instagram Story, the 29-year-old posted a sun-soaked island getaway, asking fans “Want to see a big ole island dump?” with a yes/no poll.
And not to mention, it got people talking. She has significantly expanded her off-court footprint following her breakout 2025 season. On Jan. 29, Cunningham signed with 3 Arts Sports, the athlete management division of Lionsgate’s 3 Arts Entertainment, to develop her career in media and entertainment.
Advertisement
Plus, her podcast, co-hosted with West Wilson, has gained major traction, including high-profile partnerships with Marriott Bonvoy during the March Madness season.
But her future with the Fever looks complicated heading into the upcoming WNBA Expansion Draft. As an unrestricted free agent, Indiana is not expected to use a precious “protected” spot on her.
If an expansion team selects her, they gain her exclusive negotiating rights. Then, they could use a “Core” designation on her, which would force her into a supermax contract with that new team and it would effectively block Indiana from re-signing her, as only one team can hold those rights.
Advertisement
Related: Sophie Cunningham’s Behavior Criticized by Her Sister
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
