Sophie Cunningham has emerged as one of basketball’s most compelling personalities, transforming from a relatively unknown guard into the WNBA’s second-biggest star in a matter of days. The 28-year-old American has captured hearts across the pond, including those of UK basketball fans who can now watch her exploits live on TNT Sports.
From Missouri Farm to Basketball Stardom
Born on 16 August 1996 in Columbia, Missouri, Cunningham’s journey to professional basketball began in rather unconventional circumstances. The daughter of former University of Missouri student athletes, she achieved her black belt in taekwondo at just six years old. This martial arts background would later prove instrumental in shaping her aggressive, protective playing style that has made her a fan favourite.
During her time at Rock Bridge High School, Cunningham became the girls’ programme all-time leading scorer. When the football team’s kicker suffered an ACL injury, she stepped in as their kicker, successfully converting two of four field goal attempts. This versatility and fearless attitude would become hallmarks of her career.
College Excellence and Professional Breakthrough
Cunningham’s collegiate career at the University of Missouri established her as a force to be reckoned with. Over four seasons with the Tigers, she averaged 17.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists across 129 career starts. Her outstanding performances earned her multiple All-SEC honours.
The Phoenix Mercury selected Cunningham as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft, making her the highest-drafted former Tiger in league history. During her rookie season, she made an immediate impact, leading all first-year players in free-throw shooting percentage at 88.2 percent.
The Trade That Changed Everything
In January 2025, Sophie Cunningham career took a dramatic turn when she was traded from Phoenix to the Indiana Fever in a four-team deal. The move reunited her with superstar Caitlin Clark, though few could have predicted the explosive partnership that would follow.
Cunningham currently earns £78,000 annually on a one-year contract with the Fever. Whilst this might seem modest compared to Premier League footballers, it reflects the WNBA’s salary structure, where the league minimum for experienced players stands at £61,500.
The Moment That Defined a Career
On 17 June 2025, during a heated contest between the Fever and Connecticut Sun, Cunningham’s life changed forever. When Sun guard Jacy Sheldon poked Clark in the eye, tensions escalated rapidly. After Marina Mabrey pushed Clark to the ground, Cunningham decided enough was enough.
In the game’s closing minutes, Cunningham grabbed Sheldon around the neck and pulled her to the floor, sparking a massive altercation. The incident led to both players being ejected, with Cunningham receiving a £300 fine. However, the financial penalty paled in comparison to the cultural impact of her actions.
Social Media Explosion and Commercial Success
The aftermath of Cunningham’s protective gesture created an unprecedented social media phenomenon. Her TikTok following skyrocketed from 302,100 to over one million within just three days. On the first day alone, she gained 229,000 new followers, followed by 304,500 the next day.
Her Instagram following surged by an estimated 300,000 accounts, reaching over 800,000 total followers. Sports marketing experts suggest this growth could be worth over £780,000 in potential earnings.
“It’s unprecedented growth,” said Addison Abdo, Cunningham’s representative at sports management agency PRP. “We work with some pretty big athletes that have gone viral for some pretty big things, but this has been something that I haven’t seen before.”
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Jersey Sales Reach Fever Pitch
The commercial impact extended beyond social media metrics. Cunningham’s number 8 Fever jersey sold out almost immediately across all sizes from medium to 2XL. The demand surprised team officials, who struggled to keep pace with orders.
Rachel DeMita, a respected sports television personality, confirmed the merchandise frenzy, describing jerseys as “flying off the shelves”. For many supporters, purchasing Cunningham’s jersey represents more than fandom—it symbolises solidarity with team loyalty and protective instincts.
UK Connection and Growing International Appeal
British basketball fans can witness Sophie Cunningham exploits firsthand through TNT Sports’ multi-year WNBA broadcasting agreement. The network shows at least 16 regular-season games annually, bringing American women’s basketball to UK primetime slots.
Recent data suggests 80% of UK sports fans express interest in at least one women’s sport, with this figure rising to 85% among those aged 35 and younger. TNT Sports’ commitment to women’s basketball aligns with this growing appetite for diverse sporting content.
Statistical Impact and Team Performance
Beyond the headlines, Cunningham has delivered solid on-court contributions. Throughout her WNBA career, she has appeared in 53 games, maintaining career averages of 3.8 points and 1.0 rebounds. Her 88.1% career free-throw shooting percentage demonstrates remarkable consistency under pressure.
The Fever’s recent success, including their progression to the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, has been aided by Cunningham’s veteran presence. Her five points and seven rebounds in the crucial Sun victory exemplified her ability to contribute when stakes are highest.
Financial Implications and Future Prospects
Cunningham becomes an unrestricted free agent following the 2025 season, potentially opening doors to improved contracts. Her newfound popularity could translate into enhanced earning potential, both through WNBA salaries and endorsement opportunities.
Currently partnered with Quest Nutrition, Cunningham has demonstrated savvy in building commercial relationships. Her recent humorous social media interaction with Sephora, following an ankle sprain outside their store, showcased her personality and marketing acumen.
The Broader WNBA Renaissance
Sophie Cunningham rise coincides with unprecedented WNBA growth. The 2024 season witnessed record-breaking attendance figures not seen in 26 years. Over 400,000 fans attended games through May 2024, representing a 156% increase in sellouts compared to the previous year.
Viewership has similarly exploded, with games averaging 1.32 million viewers across major networks—nearly triple the previous season’s 462,000 average. This surge has created opportunities for players like Cunningham to build substantial followings.
Looking Ahead
Sophie Cunningham’s transformation from role player to cultural phenomenon demonstrates sport’s unpredictable nature. Her fierce loyalty to teammates has resonated with fans seeking authentic personalities in professional athletics.
As UK audiences continue discovering women’s basketball through TNT Sports coverage, Cunningham represents the league’s evolving identity. Her story proves that sometimes the most compelling narratives emerge from unexpected moments of courage and loyalty.
Whether she maintains this meteoric rise remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Sophie Cunningham has permanently altered her place in basketball history through one defining moment of fierce protection.
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