The guard explained that, while all basketball players shake hands before each game, the post-game handshake line is unnecessary. This contrasts with the NHL, where even after intense fights, players maintain the handshake tradition.
Divided opinions and the reality of the WNBA
For Sophie Cunningham, skipping the handshake line is not a matter of respect or courtesy, but rather a practical issue and a personal choice.
Wilson noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, this practice was altered for health reasons, and previously it had been suspended because some players accidentally collided.
This debate reflects the growing autonomy of athletes in the WNBA and how traditions can adapt to the league’s evolving dynamics.
Sophie Cunningham and the Fever challenging season
Beyond discussing traditions, Sophie Cunningham reflected on the Indiana Fever season. Which nearly reached the WNBA Finals despite suffering multiple injuries.
In the fifth game of the series against the Las Vegas Aces, the injury-plagued Fever forced overtime against the eventual champions before being eliminated.
Cunningham remarked, “If we had had a couple of calls go our way, we would have reached the finals, which is crazy.”
Sophie Cunningham highlighted that the team played without several key players, including Aari McDonald, Sydney Colson, and Caitlin Clark. Yet still delivered a memorable performance.
Although the future remains uncertain due to collective bargaining negotiations. The point guard expressed confidence that the Indiana Fever could return to competitiveness if the front office can retain its core players for the next season.
