Sophie Cunningham addresses her ‘attitude problem’

Sophie Cunningham has emerged as a key veteran presence for the Indiana Fever since joining in 2025. Beyond her scoring, the 29-year-old guard has taken on a prominent defensive and physical role within the roster.

Cunningham often matches up with opponents in high-intensity situations and draws attention for her on-court confrontations. That role drew scrutiny during a June game against the Connecticut Sun.

In that matchup, the Missouri native acted as a protective enforcer for Fever star Caitlin Clark. Cunningham was ejected and fined by the league after a flagrant foul on Sun guard Jacy Sheldon. It followed an incident in which Sheldon poked Clark in the eye and made contact with her during a bump.

Cunningham’s action was widely viewed as retaliation for Sheldon’s defensive play against Clark. It cemented her image as an enforcer who looks out for younger teammates in high-pressure moments.

Aside from her physical play, the 6-foot-1 guard’s direct and no-nonsense communication style also draws attention. Cunningham rarely filters her thoughts during interviews. That trait has drawn occasional scrutiny from league officials but has also earned her a large social media following.

Sophie Cunningham to critics: My attitude isn’t the problem

On Sunday, Cunningham addressed criticism of her no-nonsense approach, which some perceive as an “attitude problem.” She posted a video on her Instagram story featuring Chucky—the infamous horror character—performing upbeat moves.

Above the clip was a defiant message directed at her critics.

“I don’t have an attitude problem, you have a problem with my attitude and that’s not my problem ,” Cunningham wrote.

Cunningham recently agreed to a one-year contract to return to Indiana. The Fever guard delivered a standout performance during the 2025 season. She averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists across 30 games.

Cunningham shot 43.2% from three-point range and helped Indiana win the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup last season. It marked the first such title in franchise history.

As Indiana builds on that momentum in 2026, Cunningham will stay a central figure on the roster. Her toughness remains a part of her value, as she plays her own way rather than changing it to meet expectations. 

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