Sophie Cunningham Had Two Words After Fever's Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 19, 2026 7:58 PM ET

Sophie Cunningham’s first season with the Indiana Fever ended in heartbreak. This is after the 6-foot-1 guard suffered a season-ending torn MCL in her right knee in August. The injury required surgery, and Cunningham has since been working hard in her rehab.

Cunningham joined the Fever ahead of the 2025 season via a multi-team trade deal involving the Phoenix Mercury. She played 30 games in her debut campaign, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.7 triples in 25.2 minutes per contest.

Cunningham’s impact on the squad was undeniable. So much so that the Fever rewarded her with a new one-year contract in WNBA free agency, extending her tenure in Indiana.

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) against the Phoenix Mercury in the first half of a WNBA game.© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Cunningham had her first official practice with the squad on Sunday, the first day of training camp. This was after the Fever decided to clear her for action following a lengthy injury layoff. Cunningham finally reaped the rewards of all the hard work she put in during the offseason.

Cunningham announced her return by sharing a photo of herself from Day 1 of training camp. The Fever posted practice pictures on Instagram with Cunningham headlining the album.

The former Missouri Tigers star shared the post via an Instagram story along with a two-word caption.

"WE'RE BACKKKKKK" Cunningham wrote.

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Cunningham is expected to play a key role for the Fever in 2026 alongside Caitlin Clark , Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull. Cunningham established herself as the team’s enforcer, while also emerging as a legitimate threat from deep.

The 29-year-old is also a leader on the squad, and her vocal presence will be pivotal as the Fever aim to reach new heights this coming season.

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

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