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Fever Star Sophie Cunningham Announces News Away From WNBA

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jan 4, 2026 10:19 PM ET

After a memorable first year with the Indiana Fever that saw the team win the Commissioner's Cup and make it to the WNBA semifinals, Sophie Cunningham is making the most of her offseason.

Cunningham played just 30 games in 2025 due to an MCL tear in her right knee. She was ruled out for the season as a result, finishing with averages of 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.0 steal.

Despite the unfortunate setback, it hasn't stopped Cunningham from enjoying her break from the WNBA. Aside from her ongoing rehab, she has been fulfilling several off-court commitments and brand deals, from hosting her podcast to appearing at an LPGA pro-am event and guesting on "Good Morning America."

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham poses for a photo.© Grace Smith-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

This January, the Fever guard has an event planned as well. She will be hosting her fourth annual Sophie Cunningham Classic, a three-day basketball tournament for female athletes.

On Tuesday, not only did she confirm the schedule for the competition, but she also revealed the nationally ranked players who will participate.

Now, Cunningham has more updates about the basketball tournament. She shared an announcement on her Instagram Stories about the tributes the Sophie Cunningham Classic has in store.

According to the post, there will be a Military Appreciation Day on Jan. 9 and a First Responders Day on Jan. 10. As part of the celebration, all current and former members of the military and their families will receive a discount on their tickets. Instead of the $10 ticket prices, they can avail tickets for half the price at $5. The same discount applies to all current first responders and their families on Jan. 10.

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Fans absolutely loved the move from Cunningham, with one fan commenting, "Thankful for our military & 1st responders!!!"

"Great to give back to the vets like my dad. Never enough appreciation and respect given to vets and all they have done for the country," a commenter wrote. Another one said, "Thanks Sophie!"

A follower remarked, "It’s so awesome to see someone care about the young woman."

"I should have also said before thankful for all that veterans and first responders both do to protect us, I have 2 in-law relations that are courageous police officers as wells. Applauds to all of them," a poster stated.

The Sophie Cunningham Classic is set to take place from Jan. 9-11 at Bob Burchard Court inside the Southwell Complex at Columbia College.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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