Sophie Cunningham Hopes $26 Million NBA Contract News Is Not True

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 2:14 PM ET

Sophie Cunningham's star grew even larger as a member of the Indiana Fever this season after six years with the Phoenix Mercury.

Cunningham's 3-and-D skillset proved essential to Indiana's 2025 success where she averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 30 games before going down with a torn MCL against the Connecticut Sun back in August.

The Caitlin Clark protector also hasn't been shy about expressing her views about the WNBA and basketball at-large — so when ESPN's Shams Charania dropped a surprising bit of news last week, Cunningham was sure to let her feelings be known.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - AUGUST 03: Sophie Cunningham #8 of the Indiana Fever stretches before the game against the Seattle Storm at Climate Pledge Arena on August 03, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)Soobum Im/Getty Images

Sophie Cunningham reacts to Terry Rozier salary news

Last Thursday saw Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, as well as others, arrested on FBI charges related to illegal sports betting — including conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering, per the NBA insider.

But to make matters even more interesting, a report from Front Office Sports confirmed that the former 16th overall pick will still receive his $26 million salary from Miami while being placed on administrative leave amid his investigation.

“No way. please tell me this is fake…” Sophie said in response to the reports.

no way. please tell me this is fake… https://t.co/uqxBqDfRC6
— Sophie Cunningham (@sophaller) October 25, 2025

Fans call Cunningham out in mentions

"You are too grown to not understand Americans rights and contracts…." a user said.

"MAGA white woman doesn’t understand due process and what an union is about but is very vocal about her union and league not being at the level of the NBA," another commented.

"Not wanting someone to get paid is the nastiest form of hating," a fan claimed.

"Why are you involving yourself in business that has nothing to do with you " another person laughed.

"Shawty said no way his legally binding contract is still being honored," another user posted.

Portland Trail Blazers coach and Hall of Fame point guard Chauncey Billups was also wrapped up in the federal charges — and players have reportedly been banned from contacting him by the team's front office.

In 10 NBA seasons, Rozier has averaged 13.9 points, 4.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game across 381 starts and 665 total appearances.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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