Sophie Cunningham Returns to Indiana Fever for 2026 Season

Sophie Cunningham took on a leadership role with the Indiana Fever during the 2025 season, often standing up for her teammates, including Caitlin Clark.

As Cunningham was approaching free agency, fans were left to wonder whether she would stay with the Fever for 2026. On Sunday, she made her decision: she’s returning to Indiana.

The Fever announced they’ve come to a one-year agreement with Cunningham. In a statement, she expressed her enthusiasm for the team, noting, “We had a really special group last year, and it was a great first season for me in Indy. I loved my teammates and everything about the Fever organization. We’ve overcome a lot of adversity, but it was important to me that we have a chance to finish what we started.” She also added, “I have a feeling it’s going to be another special season this year, so I’m excited to get things started and, of course, continue to play in front of the best fans in the WNBA. Let’s get spicy!”

Cunningham had a solid year in 2025, participating in 30 games. Unfortunately, her season was interrupted due to a torn MCL. Despite that, she averaged 8.6 points per game, achieving a career-high shooting percentage of 43.2 from beyond the arc.

The Fever sees her as vital to their championship ambitions. General Manager Amber Cox commented on Cunningham’s relentless drive, stating, “I think she’s always willing to step in and do whatever it takes to win. When you have a shooter like Sophie, you have someone who is consistently at the top of the league in effectiveness from beyond the arc. That really helps everyone else as well…I think everything she brings as a competitor is going to impact us.”

This past season, despite injuries affecting both Cunningham and Clark, Indiana secured a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference with a record of 24-20. They triumphed over the Atlanta Dream in the first round of the playoffs but were eliminated by the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals.