The Valley loved Sophie Cunningham. She was their ‘X-factor’ and ‘fire’ on the court. Fans cheered her hard plays and sassy personality. But on July 30, she would be on the opposing team, and traveling fans might find it odd to cheer for her shots or defensive play.
The forward will be in action against the Phoenix Mercury as the Indiana Fever host the third-seeded team at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena. The obvious question was about the 28-year-old star’s feelings about playing against her first franchise.
Sophie Cunningham On Playing Against Phoenix Mercury
There comes a time when athletes face their former teams and teammates in pro leagues. Trades, contracts, and waivers play a crucial role, with players switching their loyalties. Although they play hard and give 100% for their current organization, there could be a soft corner for their previous teams. While the 2019 rookie will feel she has to deal with all this, she will play in the Fever’s home court, making it a bit easier.
“I have nothing but good things to say about Phoenix. It was my home for six years. I created a lot of fond memories, and relationships, and close, close friendships out there. And so it’s gonna be really nice to see some of those people. But for me, I’m just all-in. I’m happy to be here in Indiana,” Cunningham told the press.
"I bring the energy, I bring the feistiness. I'm a little bit sassy." 💥
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 12, 2025
Sophie Cunningham was electric in our dub over the Dream last night, recording her first double-double of the season with 16 PTS, 10 REB, and 4 3PM. pic.twitter.com/8b1cFMSaFf
The former Missouri star was one of the big names in the Arizona-based WNBA franchise. The team’s general manager, Jim Pitman, even stated that the forward is a “core” player and a “fan favorite”, emphasizing her positive impact on the team and fanbase.
The Mercury team has a better record (16-9) in the league behind Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Copper, and Satou Sabally’s plays. The Fever stands in sixth position with a 14-12 record and is pushing for a higher ranking for an easier playoff run.
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Comparing Sophie Cunningham’s Career With Phoenix And Indiana Franchises
The forward played six seasons with the Mercury side, making the playoffs on five occasions. While her first three seasons were a learning phase, getting limited gametime, she quickly became the key player on the roster and a massive contributor at both ends of the floor.
She averaged 7.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in her six years. The 2022 season was her career-best year, with the star putting up career-best numbers in points (12.6), rebounds (4.4), and steals (one). The front office quickly tied down the talented forward for four more seasons in 2023.
The Fever made a big move by trading for Phoenix’s prized asset in a four-team trade. The impactful players brought experience and strong defence to the locker room, keeping the offensive core intact. In 21 games played so far, the star averages 7.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and a steal per game.
Those might not be flashy numbers for a seven-year veteran in her prime, but she fulfils the role perfectly and is a key member of HC Stephanie White’s rotation. The outspoken defender was vocal about the Fever fanbase, also after receiving love from Indiana. She has already won one title, the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup, with Caitlin Clark and co., and now will aim for a WNBA title after missing out on a championship in 2021 with the Mercury.