Sophie Cunningham, born on August 16, 1996, in Columbia, Missouri, is an American professional basketball player currently playing as a guard for the Indiana Fever in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 170 pounds, Cunningham has established herself as a formidable presence on the court.
Early Life and College Career
Cunningham’s passion for basketball was influenced by her athletic family; her mother, Paula, was a college-level javelin thrower, and her father, Jim, played football. She also has an older sister, Lindsey, who was a standout player for the Missouri State Tigers and currently serves as their Assistant Director of Development.
Attending the University of Missouri, Cunningham played four seasons with the Tigers, becoming the program’s all-time leading scorer with 2,187 points. She also set records for the most free throws made (537) and was the first player in the program’s history to earn an Associated Press All-America honor. Her collegiate career was distinguished by her competitiveness and leadership on the court.
Professional Career
In the 2019 WNBA Draft, Cunningham was selected 13th overall by the Phoenix Mercury, making her the highest-drafted player from the University of Missouri. During her tenure with the Mercury, she became known for her resilience and three-point shooting ability. Notably, in July 2022, she became the first player in WNBA history to score at least two three-point baskets in seventeen consecutive games.
Cunningham also gained international experience by playing for the Melbourne Boomers in Australia during the 2019–2020 season, where she averaged 11.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. She had a brief stint with Basket Landes in France in 2022 but left the team due to an elbow injury after nine games.
In January 2025, Cunningham was traded to the Indiana Fever as part of a four-team deal involving the Phoenix Mercury, Dallas Wings, and Connecticut Sun.
Broadcasting Career
Beyond her playing career, Cunningham expanded her presence in the sports world by joining the broadcasting team for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. She made her color commentary debut on January 16, 2024, during a game where the Suns overcame a 22-point deficit to defeat the Sacramento Kings. She also served as a sideline reporter for the Suns’ game against the Dallas Mavericks, showcasing her versatility and deep understanding of the game.
Recent Developments
As of March 2025, Cunningham has been in the spotlight not only for her on-court performances but also for her candid discussions about personal life choices. She has openly addressed questions about her decision not to marry, emphasizing her focus on her career and personal independence.
Cunningham’s journey from a collegiate standout to a professional athlete and broadcaster reflects her dedication, adaptability, and passion for basketball. Her influence extends beyond the court, inspiring many with her commitment to excellence and authenticity.
