Sophie Cunningham has played alongside and against some of the greatest names in women’s basketball. From sharing the court with legends like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner during her time with Phoenix Mercury to now joining forces with the Indiana Fever, Cunningham is no stranger to high-level competition. However, despite switching teams and zip codes, the 24-year-old is feeling right at home in the Midwest.
After spending six successful seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, Cunningham was traded to the Indiana Fever in February 2020. And although it may have come as a surprise to her at the time, Cunningham is now excited for the new challenges and opportunities the move brings.
“I think anytime there’s change, there’s going to be some adjustment period,” Cunningham shared in an interview with EssentiallySports. “But for me, I’m just so excited for this next chapter and to be a part of the Indiana Fever organization.”
Having been known for her fiery and competitive nature on the court, Cunningham’s transition to the Fever has been smooth. Her infectious energy and passion for the game have quickly made her a favorite among her new teammates and coaching staff.
“I’m just trying to bring my energy and intensity to the team, and I think that’s what I’ve been able to do,” Cunningham explained. “I think it’s just my style of play, I try to bring that intensity and competitiveness every day. I think that’s just a natural fit for me.”
Cunningham’s enthusiasm and passion for the game was on full display during the Fever’s training camp, where she had a standout moment that left her teammates and coaches in awe. In a game where players were instructed to play at half-speed, Cunningham couldn’t help but give it her all, leading to a jaw-dropping play that even made headlines.
“I was just playing my game and giving it my all, and it’s just a testament to my competitive nature,” Cunningham laughed. “I just didn’t realize the instructions [to play at half-speed], I was just locked in and going for it.”
Her dedication and hard work on and off the court have earned her praise from her coaches and teammates, with Fever head coach Marianne Stanley calling her a valuable addition to the team.
“Every day, she brings it. And that’s exactly what we want in terms of the culture and the expectations that we have for this team,” Stanley said about Cunningham. “Players like Sophie, who have experience and who have been there, and done that, bring a lot of value for any team.”
Cunningham’s experience playing alongside top-tier players like Taurasi and Griner has undoubtedly prepared her to take on a leadership role in her new team. And while she may be known as a fierce competitor on the court, off the court, she is also known for her humility and willingness to learn from her veteran teammates.
“I have been fortunate enough to play with the greatest players in the game. I’ve learned so much from them, and I’m just trying to take that knowledge and bring it to Indiana,” Cunningham shared. “It’s been great to be a sponge and just learn from my new teammates and coaches here.”
As the Fever prepares for the upcoming WNBA season, Cunningham is eager to contribute and help the team succeed. Despite being in a new city and facing new challenges, the young guard is confident that her hard work and passion for the game will propel her and her team to greatness.
“I’m excited to be a part of this organization, and I’m looking forward to bringing my energy and intensity and doing whatever I can to help this team win,” Cunningham expressed.
With players like Cunningham bringing their unwavering determination and drive, the Indiana Fever is shaping up to be a formidable force in the upcoming WNBA season. And as she continues to learn and grow surrounded by her new teammates, Cunningham is ready to make a significant impact on and off the court.
