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Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever (Image via Getty)
The Indiana Fever’s 2025 WNBA campaign took another devastating hit on August 19 when the team confirmed that veteran guard Sophie Cunningham will miss the rest of the season with a right knee injury. Cunningham was hurt during the Fever’s overtime win against the Connecticut Sun, casting doubt over the team’s playoff push and further depleting an already battered backcourt.
How a Collision Changed the Game for Sophie Cunningham and the Indiana Fever
The injury occurred in the second quarter when Connecticut’s Bria Hartley drove hard to the basket and collided awkwardly with Sophie Cunningham’s right knee. Cunningham immediately crumpled to the floor in visible pain and had to be assisted off the court.An MRI later confirmed the worst: a torn MCL in her right knee, ruling her out for the season. While doctors expect a full recovery, the setback piles onto a growing list of injuries that has already tested the Fever’s depth and resilience.
Sophie Cunningham’s First Year in Indiana Fever: A Promising Start
This was Sophie Cunningham’s debut season with the Indiana Fever following her trade from the Phoenix Mercury. She quickly carved out a role in the rotation, starting in 13 games across 30 appearances. Cunningham averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while posting career-best efficiency—46.9% from the field and 43.2% from three.Her defense, grit, and timely shooting were crucial for an Indiana squad that had already lost guards Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald earlier in August. Beyond the numbers, her fiery competitiveness and willingness to defend teammates—highlighted by an in-game altercation protecting rookie sensation Caitlin Clark—made her a fan favorite.
What the Indiana Fever Can Do to Compensate for Sophie’s Absenve
With Cunningham sidelined, the Indiana Fever wasted no time in making moves. The team signed veteran guard Shey Peddy to a seven-day hardship contract to stabilize the rotation. Peddy, who last played for the Los Angeles Sparks under a similar deal, brings valuable experience to a guard unit hit hard by injuries.Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s return looms large. The star rookie has missed 13 games due to a groin injury, and her availability could make or break Indiana’s postseason chances.
Sitting sixth in the standings, the Fever still face the league’s toughest remaining schedule, including three matchups against the powerhouse Minnesota Lynx.
Family and Teammates Rally Around Cunningham
The emotional impact of Sophie Cunningham’s injury has been deeply felt. Her sister voiced frustration on social media, calling out WNBA officiating and demanding stronger measures to protect players. Head coach Stephanie White also shared her heartbreak, pointing to both Cunningham’s visible pain and the growing toll on an already injury-ravaged roster.Cunningham, who turned 29 just days before the incident, responded with gratitude and optimism, thanking fans for their support and vowing to stay positive throughout her recovery.
Brief Insight into Sophie’s Current Season
The Indiana Fever’s 2025 season has been marred by injuries, forcing constant adjustments and testing the team’s depth. Cunningham’s absence adds yet another hurdle, but also presents opportunities for unheralded players to step into the spotlight.Also read: Gabrielle Union, 52, Stuns in Bikini Photos on Instagram With Dwyane Wade During Summer GetawayFor Indiana, the challenge now lies in maintaining momentum in a crowded playoff race. For Sophie Cunningham, the next chapter will be recovery—another test of the toughness and leadership that have defined her career. Fans and teammates alike will be eager to see her back on the court in 2026, ready to write a new comeback story.