Sunday’s matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, especially for Fever fans, as Sophie Cunningham had to leave the court after suffering a leg injury.
Cunningham, who has been a key player for Indiana, appeared in visible pain after a collision with Sun guard Bria Hartley under the basket.
The Moment of Impact
During a defensive play, Hartley attempted a pass around Fever star Kelsey Mitchell but accidentally collided with Cunningham’s lower right leg.
Cunningham initially tried to stay on the court, but the pain was too intense, and team personnel helped her to the locker room.
Cameras captured her yelling in discomfort, and the Fever confirmed she would not return for the remainder of the game.
Cunningham’s Role on the Team
This possible serious injury comes at a pivotal time for Cunningham.
With Caitlin Clark sidelined for a stretch, Cunningham has stepped up as a key contributor and fan favorite.
She celebrated her 29th birthday on Saturday, right in the thick of the WNBA playoff race, showing her commitment and passion for the team.
Her sister, Lindsey Cunningham, voiced frustration at league officiating on X, saying, “Maybe you should focus less on fining players for commenting on your poor officiating & more about hiring officials that can protect your athletes. Pathetic. Praying for you, @sophaller.”
Supporting Caitlin Clark
Cunningham has spent much of her WNBA career out of the spotlight, especially during her first six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury.
But now, particularly during Clark’s absence, she has embraced a leadership and supportive role.
She likens her role to being the Sabrina Carpenter to Clark’s Taylor Swift—backing her teammate so Clark can shine while the team benefits as a whole.
“We want to help her. We want to all win.
Let her be the Taylor Swift, and we’ll all be right there supporting,” Cunningham told the Daily Mail, emphasizing her team-first mentality.
Fever Rally Without Key Players
Even with Cunningham and Clark sidelined, the Fever showed resilience.
They trailed by as much as 21 points against the Sun but managed a thrilling 99-93 overtime victory.
Kelsey Mitchell led the charge with 38 points, and Cunningham celebrated her teammate’s effort on X: “KELSEY FREAKIN MITCHELL.
Battled battled battled. So proud,” Clark added in her own post-game tribute.
Looking Ahead for Indiana
The Fever improve to 19-16 overall and now have a few days off until Friday’s game, giving head coach Stephanie White time to assess the roster and determine next steps.
The team’s ability to adapt without two of their main contributors will be crucial as the playoff push continues.
