Sophie Cunningham gets real: coach, broadcaster, or mom?

Sophie Cunningham hasn’t said goodbye to basketball, but she’s already looking beyond the three-point line. The Indiana Fever guard is in a moment of reflection after a season cut short by injury in August. Although her right knee required surgery, her mind hasn’t stopped moving—and neither has her voice. On her podcast “Show Me Something,” Cunningham opened up about what might come when she finally hangs up her sneakers.

The 29-year-old played 30 games in her first season with Indiana, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 threes per game. Her impact was immediate. But a torn medial collateral ligament knocked her out just when the team needed her most. Sophie Cunningham was one of five Fever players whose seasons ended due to injury, including star rookie Caitlin Clark. Since then, the Missouri native has focused on rehab, with her sights set on returning in May 2026.

Retirement plans

In the latest episode of her podcast, the former Phoenix Mercury player admitted she’s still unsure about her post-playing career. “I want to play as long as I can… maybe another 8 or 10 years, who knows,” Sophie Cunningham said. Still, she acknowledged that coaching, while appealing, might clash with her personal goals. “I’d love to coach. But I also want to get married and have kids. Coaching life isn’t exactly ideal for that,” she explained.

Beyond coaching, Sophie Cunningham expressed interest in entertainment and broadcasting. She already has experience as a guest commentator during Phoenix Suns broadcasts. Plus, hosting her own podcast positions her as a strong voice off the court. “I’d love to be on the radio… or on a yacht doing nothing,” she joked, making it clear her future could go in many directions.

A vision beyond the WNBA

Athlon Sports highlighted how Sophie Cunningham blends athletic ambition with a clear sense of life beyond basketball. For now, her priority is to get back to full strength physically. She’s also looking to negotiate a possible contract extension with Indiana, after signing a one-year, $100,000 deal last winter.

Sophie Cunningham isn’t walking away just yet. But she’s already writing the opening lines of what could be her second act. And she’s doing it with the same energy she brings to every possession in the WNBA.