In a dramatic preseason clash on May 3, 2025, the Indiana Fever edged out the Washington Mystics 79-74 in overtime. Though the game marked a gritty team performance, it was guard Sophie Cunningham who stood out—not only for her scoring but for her fiery presence on the court. With Caitlin Clark sidelined due to a minor leg injury, Cunningham stepped up in more ways than one, finishing the game with an impressive 21 points. Her passion was on full display when tensions flared late in the game, underscoring her commitment to both performance and team spirit.
During a tense moment in the matchup, Cunningham was shoved by Mystics guard Brittany Sykes, leading to a minor confrontation. Rather than backing down, Cunningham stood her ground. Reflecting on the encounter afterward, she joked, “I might need to hit the weight room,” but also made it clear that veteran teammate DeWanna Bonner’s support meant everything. Her light-hearted comment masked a deeper message about the importance of solidarity and having each other’s backs on the court.
The competitive fire didn’t stop there. Later in the game, Cunningham found herself face-to-face with Mystics rookie Kiki Iriafen in another spirited exchange. Watching from the sidelines, Clark—known for her own competitive edge—cheered her teammate’s tenacity. These moments highlighted Cunningham’s fearless leadership and her readiness to defend and uplift her teammates in high-pressure situations.
Cunningham’s actions and attitude may very well define the Fever’s tone heading into the 2025 WNBA season. Her vow to “stick up” for her teammates speaks volumes about the team’s culture and chemistry. With emerging stars and seasoned players alike rallying together, Indiana appears poised to play with heart and resilience.
As the Fever prepare to open their regular season on May 17 against the Chicago Sky, they carry with them a renewed sense of grit and determination. And thanks to Cunningham’s bold example, the message is clear: this team is ready to fight—not just for wins, but for each other.
