Sophie Cunningham joined the Indiana Fever after the team traded for her from the Phoenix Mercury in the past offseason. It was a four-team deal that included the Dallas Wings and the Connecticut Sun, marking the largest trade in WNBA history.
After the trade, Fever general manager Amber Cox noted that they deemed Cunningham a “perfect fit” for the style of play they envision, according to Chloe Peterson of Indianapolis Star. Sure enough, the veteran guard quickly established herself as an enforcer and a reliable backup for Indiana.
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Cunningham averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.0 steal per game in her first season with the Fever, all while starting in 13 games.
Unfortunately for Cunningham, her campaign ended prematurely after she suffered a knee injury in August. She tore her right MCL, which required surgery. She also missed the playoffs as a result.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham poses for a photo.© Grace Smith-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Now, Cunningham is not only recovering from the injury but also navigating free agency since she was only on a one-year, $100,000 contract extension when she joined the Fever.
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According to Cunningham, the Fever are still helping with her rehab. However, she noted that she’s a free agent and she’s “technically” not with the team.
“Technically, I’m not signed to Indiana,” Cunningham said in her “Show Me Something” podcast, as she and co-host West Wilson were discussing her living situation.
When Wilson asked if her rehab program does not involve the Fever, Cunningham clarified: “So, I’m still working with them up to a certain point and then if I re-sign, then I can continue to work with them. But I have Frank out here who’s doing it and then Todd and Maria are doing it back in Indiana.”
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It remains to be seen what will happen to Cunningham and if the Fever will bring her back. For what it’s worth, Indiana star Caitlin Clark did express her desire to “run it back” with her after the season ended.
The Fever have only three players under contract for 2026, however, so they will certainly have plenty of tough decisions to make as they construct their team once again.
Related: “Your Girl’s Screwed”: Sophie Cunningham Announces Results of Latest Medical Test
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Oct 23, 2025, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
