High value on and off the court
Sophie Cunningham isn’t just a reliable shooter from deep. Her leadership, media presence, and connection with fans make her a key figure both on and off the court. An analyst quoted by Marca noted that her value as a brand might even outweigh her on-court role. That’s something Indiana’s front office will have to weigh carefully amid salary cap constraints.
The team, built around Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, faces a tough management decision. Can they afford to keep Sophie Cunningham without compromising the growth of their young stars?. The pressure of the salary cap and the need to strengthen other areas make this negotiation more complex than it seems.
Cost-benefit analysis
From a basketball standpoint, Sophie Cunningham brings experience, court vision, and a competitive mindset that’s been vital in the locker room. But her injury history and age force Indiana to run a cost-benefit analysis. Is it worth investing in her under demanding terms, or is it better to free up space for new talent?.
Sophie Cunningham just said on her podcast she is looking for a bigger multi year contract so she can buy a house. Take care of your fellow Missouri girl @AmberLCox and make our fan favorite Sophie a Fever for life by paying her what she is worth. We can’t lose her. pic.twitter.com/969Cbnt3ge
— CaitlinFor3 (@CaitlinForThree) October 31, 2025
With free agency just around the corner, the decision is urgent. Fans are eager to know whether Sophie Cunningham and Caitlin Clark will continue to share the court in the next chapter of the Fever. For now, the conversation remains open—and the ball is in the franchise’s court.