WNBA star Sophie Cunningham signed a new one-year contract with the Indiana Fever for the 2026 season, but her reaction to the deal has sparked controversy. According to reports, Cunningham was not impressed with her new contract payday, and her comments about the contract sparked backlash from fans on social media, with some branding her 'ungrateful'. Cunningham's contract was signed in the wake of the WNBA's new Collective Bargaining Agreement, which may influence its structure and terms, though specific details and salary comparisons remain unclear.
The signing comes after Cunningham came off an injury and had not been in front of any teams during the offseason, but she was fully cleared by doctors and had all medical numbers available. She made 30 appearances for the Indiana Fever in the 2025 season before suffering an MCL tear that cut her season short, highlighting her recent injury history. 2 percent from beyond the arc, showcasing her shooting prowess.
She spent six years with the Phoenix Mercury before joining the Indiana Fever, and holds a career scoring average of nearly nine points per game, reflecting her consistent performance over time. The Indiana Fever's official response to Cunningham's comments has not been disclosed, and details about what specific terms or clauses in her contract led to her frustration are unknown. How her salary compares to other WNBA players of similar experience and performance also remains unclear, adding to the uncertainties surrounding this deal.