After a whirlwind year in the WNBA that saw both championship glory and a tough physical setback, Sophie Cunningham proved this weekend that no matter how far her career takes her, her heart remains in Columbia, Missouri.
Returning home for the offseason, the 29-year-old Indiana Fever guard hosted the fourth edition of the Sophie Cunningham Classic. The three-day basketball tournament at Columbia College wasn’t just a showcase of young talent—it was a homecoming celebration for a local legend who continues to give back to the community that raised her.
A Rollercoaster Year in the Pros
Cunningham’s 2025 season was one for the history books. After six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, she made a high-profile move to the Indiana Fever, joining forces with sensation Caitlin Clark. The transition paid off immediately:
Commissioner’s Cup Champions: Sophie helped lead the Fever to a mid-season title.
Playoff Run: The team defied expectations by reaching the WNBA playoff semifinals.
However, the season ended on a bittersweet note. In August, Sophie suffered a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL) in her right knee, sidelining her for the final stretch. Now, in the midst of her recovery, she is using her time away from the professional court to pour her energy into her personal projects.
The 4th Annual Sophie Cunningham Classic
What started in 2022 as a collaboration between Sophie and her sister, Lindsey, has grown into a premier event for young athletes. Sponsored by heavy hitters like Adidas and Arby’s, the tournament featured high-energy matchups, culminating in a head-to-head between Liberty North and Rock Bridge.
Despite her injury, Sophie was a constant presence on the sidelines. Fans noted that she remained “a friend to everyone,” spending hours in long lines to sign autographs, take photos, and share words of encouragement with the next generation of Missouri hoopers.
”I Love My Hometown”
The impact of the weekend was captured perfectly on social media. After local sports accounts shared videos of the massive crowds waiting to meet her, Sophie took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her gratitude:
”I love my hometown and the people in it!”
The sentiment was mutual. Comments poured in calling her a “good soul” and a “local legend,” thanking her for keeping her roots a priority despite her global stardom.
What’s Next for Sophie?
As the 2026 WNBA season approaches, Sophie’s focus remains on her knee rehabilitation and her growing role as a leader both on and off the court. If this weekend in Columbia was any indication, she has an entire state cheering her on as she works her way back to full strength.
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