Sophie Cunningham speaks out after Indiana Fever backlash

The Indiana Fever signed Sophie Cunningham to a one-year contract this offseason. In her first season with Indiana, the 29-year-old guard became the team’s enforcer and one of its top performers. She consistently protected her young teammates while also contributing on bothe ends. However, a torn right MCL cut her season short in August. 

Now fully recovered, Cunningham’s new deal is worth $665,000, according to Spotrac. Thanks to the new WNBA collective bargaining agreement, her salary significantly surpasses the $100,000 she earned in 2025. This new figure also exceeds the league minimum of $292,500 for veterans with seven to nine years of experience. It also beats the league average of roughly $583,800 to $600,000.

Despite the lucrative payout, the Missouri native voiced frustration on her latest “Show Me Something” podcast. When her co-host, West Wilson, asked if the deal she got from Indiana met her expectations, Cunningham shook her head. After signaling her discontent, she replied, “Nope.”

“It’s tough, because I came off an injury, and I haven’t been in front of any teams,” Cunningham continued. “Like, I had a lot going on this offseason. I was fully cleared, they had all the doctors, they had all the numbers and everything. But if you don’t get in front of these people, it’s like, ‘Hey, are you actually good?’”

“I’m not even gonna lie to you, though, it’s a little, kind of, frustrating,” she added. “I’m just at the point in my career where I just want to win.”

 Sophie Cunningham clarifies comments after pushback from Indiana Fever fans

Unfortunately, her remarks sparked backlash from some fans, who were not happy with what she said. Cunningham immediately took to X to address the negative rumors and clear the air. 

“I’m gonna shut this down right now,” the Fever standout wrote. “I’m not mad about the money…. I just wanted more years because I love it here. I wanted to get a house so I could bring my dog and donkey to Indy with me. That’s it. That’s the truth. I think we have something very special here in Indiana!!”

I’m gonna shut this down right now. I’m not mad about the money…. I just wanted more years because I love it here. I wanted to get a house so I could bring my dog and donkey to Indy with me. That’s it. That’s the truth. I think we have something very special here in Indiana!! https://t.co/xq7HZ2ZDbF

— Sophie Cunningham (@sophaller) April 21, 2026

Cunningham further clarified her comments in an interview at training camp on Tuesday. She also emphasized that her relationships with her Fever teammates play a key role in her desire to remain in Indiana for the long haul.

The Fever made major roster changes this offseason, focusing on re-signing key veterans and adding experienced players. They successfully re-signed Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull, among others. 

Aliyah Boston also signed the largest contract in WNBA history: a four-year, $6.3 million deal. Tyasha Harris, Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, Monique Billings and Myisha Hines-Allen were added to the team to strengthen its roster depth. The Fever also drafted promising prospects Raven Johnson, Justine Pissott and Jessica Timmons.

These strategic moves reflect Indiana’s bold push for a WNBA championship. With Cunningham and the strengthened roster, the Fever are primed to compete for the title this season.

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