Sophie Cunningham isn't one to stay quiet when her name gets dragged through the mud. The Indiana Fever guard, now an unrestricted free agent, took direct aim at a recent column from The Athletic that suggested the franchise should cut ties with her. On her podcast, the 28-year-old didn't mince words, telling critics to "suck it" and making it clear that outside noise won't dictate how she plays the game.
"People who've never stepped on a WNBA court think they know what it takes to win," Cunningham said, addressing the backlash that has followed her since the regular season. "I know what I bring to this team, and it's not just points."
Numbers that tell a story
While the headlines focused on off-court drama, Cunningham's on-court production was quietly efficient. In her first season with the Fever, she averaged 7.9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in about 22 minutes per game. More importantly, she shot 46% from the field and a blistering 41.9% from beyond the arc—numbers that would make any shooter proud, especially in a league where spacing is gold.
Her three-point efficiency even drew comparisons to some of the best shooters in the game, a point her supporters were quick to highlight. As the Fever pushed toward the playoffs, Cunningham's ability to stretch the floor became a key part of the team's offensive identity.
Playoff grit against the Aces
In the first round of the playoffs, Cunningham stepped up her game against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces. She averaged 7.3 points in 25 minutes per contest, providing crucial spacing and defensive intensity. Though the Fever fell in three games, Cunningham's veteran presence was felt on both ends of the floor.
"She's the kind of player every team needs—someone who's not afraid to take the big shot or guard the toughest assignment," said a teammate who asked to remain anonymous. "Her energy is contagious."
Free agency and what's next
Now, after two seasons in Indianapolis, Cunningham is officially on the open market. Her one-year deal expired, and she's weighing options as teams across the league look to bolster their rosters. For Cunningham, it's about finding the right fit—a place where her leadership and shooting are valued.
"I've been in this league eight years," she said. "I know what I can do. I'm not worried about the noise."
The Fever, meanwhile, face a decision: bring back a player who has become a fan favorite and a locker room anchor, or let her walk in search of a new home. As the front office looks to build around Caitlin Clark and the young core, retaining a veteran like Cunningham could be key to maintaining chemistry and competitive edge.
Her free agency status is already a hot topic among fans, especially after Caitlin Clark's emotional farewell sparked speculation about Cunningham's future. But Cunningham has made it clear she's not done playing.
"I've got a lot of basketball left in me," she said. "Wherever I end up, they're getting a winner."
As the WNBA free agency period heats up, expect Cunningham's name to be in the mix. Her shooting, her grit, and her willingness to speak her mind make her one of the more intriguing veterans on the market. And for the Fever, the choice of whether to keep her could shape their trajectory for years to come.
