'Let's get spicy': Sophie Cunningham returning to Indiana Fever

Fan favorite guard re-signs with WNBA team ahead of 2026 season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:07pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the action and movement of a WNBA basketball game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes conveying the intensity and passion of the sport.The fiery energy and competitive spirit of star guard Sophie Cunningham is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration celebrating her return to the Indiana Fever.Indianapolis Today

The Indiana Fever announced that they have re-signed fan favorite guard Sophie Cunningham to a new contract ahead of the 2026 WNBA season. Cunningham, known as 'Spicy Sophie,' was acquired by the Fever via trade before the 2025 season and immediately made an impact on the court before suffering a season-ending injury. Despite missing the remainder of the season, Cunningham still finished fourth on the team in scoring and rebounds and led the Fever in 3-point shooting. The Fever are thrilled to have Cunningham back as they look to build on what they started a year ago.

Why it matters

Cunningham's return is a big boost for the Fever as they look to build on a promising 2025 season. Her energy, 3-point shooting, and fiery on-court intensity made her a fan favorite, and the Fever are hoping she can stay healthy and help lead the team to success in 2026. Her re-signing also comes as the Fever have brought back other key pieces like Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull, signaling their intent to contend in the WNBA.

The details

After being acquired via trade before the 2025 season, Cunningham immediately provided a spark for the Fever, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting an impressive 43% from 3-point range. However, her season was cut short in August due to a season-ending injury. Despite missing the remainder of the year, Cunningham still finished fourth on the team in scoring and rebounds. The Fever are thrilled to have her back and are confident she can build on her strong start with the team.

  • Cunningham was acquired by the Fever via trade before the 2025 season.
  • On August 17, 2025, Cunningham suffered a season-ending injury in a game against the Connecticut Sun.
  • The Fever announced Cunningham's new contract on Sunday, April 12, 2026, ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.

The players

Sophie Cunningham

A 29-year-old guard who was acquired by the Indiana Fever via trade before the 2025 season and quickly became a fan favorite with her energy, 3-point shooting, and fiery on-court intensity.

Amber Cox

The COO and General Manager of the Indiana Fever, who expressed the team's excitement about re-signing Cunningham and her commitment to the organization.

Stephanie White

The head coach of the Indiana Fever, who voiced concerns about the officiating after a game against the Connecticut Sun in which Cunningham was involved in a scuffle.

Kelsey Mitchell

The 2025 WNBA MVP candidate who the Fever have also re-signed to a supermax contract.

Lexie Hull

The fifth-year guard who the Fever have re-signed for the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to have Sophie back with the Fever and are grateful for her commitment to return and build on what we started a year ago. Not only is Sophie one of the best 3-point shooters in the league, but she is an exceptional teammate, both on and off the court.”

— Amber Cox, COO and General Manager, Indiana Fever

“We had a really special group last year, and it was an incredible first season for me in Indy; I loved everything about my teammates and the Fever organization. We fought through a ton of adversity, and it was important to me that we have a chance to see through what we started. I have a feeling this is going to be another special season, so I'm excited to get things started and to, of course, keep playing in front of the best fans in the WNBA. Let's get spicy!”

— Sophie Cunningham

“Call the fouls that are actually happening on the floor. And consistently call the fouls that are actually on the floor. And not just if someone swings and misses. Consistently call the fouls.”

— Stephanie White, Head Coach, Indiana Fever

What’s next

The Indiana Fever will tip off the preseason on April 25 in New York and open the regular season at home against the Dallas Wings on May 9.

The takeaway

Sophie Cunningham's return to the Indiana Fever is a significant boost for the team as they look to build on their promising 2025 season. Cunningham's energy, 3-point shooting, and fiery on-court intensity made her a fan favorite, and the Fever are hoping she can stay healthy and help lead the team to success in 2026 alongside other key pieces like Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull.