Sophie Cunningham Net worth
Sophie Cunningham, the dynamic Indiana Fever guard, has become a household name in the WNBA, not just for her on-court tenacity but also for her growing financial success and off-court presence.
With a net worth estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million in 2025, Cunningham’s journey from a Missouri native to a WNBA star is marked by strategic career moves, endorsement deals, and headline-grabbing moments.
This article dives into her financial profile, recent events driving her popularity, and key milestones, all backed by verified sources.
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Sophie Cunningham Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Sophie Cunningham’s net worth is estimated to range from $1.5 million to $2 million, according to sources like Celebrity Net Worth. Her wealth stems from multiple income streams:
WNBA Salary:
Cunningham’s current one-year contract with the Indiana Fever, signed initially with the Phoenix Mercury in 2024, is valued at $100,000 for the 2025 season, per Spotrac.
Her career earnings from the WNBA total approximately $637,780, starting with a four-year rookie contract worth $189,522 (2019-2022), followed by a two-year extension of $304,500 (2023-2024).
Her 2024 salary peaked at $154,500, reflecting her growing value in the league.
Endorsements and Sponsorships:
Cunningham’s marketability has skyrocketed, particularly after viral moments in 2025. She has partnerships with major brands like Adidas (worn in 97.2% of her games last season), Quest Nutrition, SKIMS, and Mad Hippie.
Her social media presence, with over 1 million TikTok followers and 730,000 Instagram followers, has boosted her earning potential, with sponsored posts potentially netting $20,000 each, according to Sportico.
A viral moment defending teammate Caitlin Clark in June 2025 reportedly generated a $1 million value boom in just three days, per Sports Illustrated.
Other Ventures:
Beyond basketball, Cunningham has ventured into broadcasting, serving as a recurring analyst for the Phoenix Suns’ Suns Live! and exploring podcasting opportunities.
She’s also invested in real estate in Missouri, building a portfolio of rental properties, which adds to her financial stability.
Recent Events Fueling Cunningham’s Rise:
Cunningham’s 2025 has been eventful, with several incidents contributing to her trending status and financial growth. Here are the key moments:
Trade to Indiana Fever:
In February 2025, Cunningham was traded from the Phoenix Mercury to the Indiana Fever in a four-team deal involving the Dallas Wings and Connecticut Sun.
The move paired her with rising star Caitlin Clark, enhancing her visibility. Fever GM Amber Cox praised her as a “fierce competitor” and a “perfect fit” for the team’s style.
“Enforcer” Reputation and Viral Moment:
On June 17, 2025, Cunningham earned the nickname “The Enforcer” after being ejected for a flagrant foul against Connecticut Sun’s Jacy Sheldon, in retaliation for Sheldon poking Clark in the eye.
The incident went viral, adding 700,000 TikTok followers and 244,000 Instagram followers in three days, per Sportico.
Her jersey sales surged, temporarily selling out on the Fever’s store. Despite a $400 fine for the foul, the social media growth was valued at $1 million.
Controversial WNBA Expansion Comments:
In July 2025, Cunningham sparked debate by questioning the WNBA’s expansion to Cleveland and Detroit, suggesting cities like Miami or Nashville instead.
Cleveland’s social media account responded by highlighting teammate Clark’s positive remarks about the city, while Detroit cited its strong WNBA history.
Cunningham later clarified her comments on July 3, 2025, emphasizing respect for the cities’ legacies but reiterating her focus on lifestyle appeal, which fueled online discussions and the nickname “MAGA Barbie” among some fans.
TikTok Fine for Referee Criticism:
On July 18, 2025, Cunningham posted a TikTok video lip-syncing to Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” with text criticizing WNBA referees, garnering 1.4 million views.
She was fined $500 by the WNBA, prompting her to comment on X, “idk why this is funny to me… like ok you got it bud! Cause there’s not more important things to be worried about with our league right now”.
The incident aligned with broader league criticism of officiating, particularly around Clark-related calls, and kept Cunningham in the headlines.
Pregame Fashion Statement:
On July 27, 2025, Cunningham’s pregame outfit before the Fever’s game against the Chicago Sky—a cropped “HOT GIRLS EAT ARBY’S” T-shirt, faux-leather shorts, and knee-high boots—went viral on Instagram, with teammate Clark commenting enthusiastically.
The post, captioned “look who has the meats now,” highlighted her Arby’s partnership and boosted her social media engagement.
Denial of Affair Allegations:
In May 2025, Cunningham addressed false rumors of an affair with Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein, raised in a lawsuit by a Suns employee. She called the accusations “untrue and extremely hurtful” on Instagram, emphasizing her integrity and focus on basketball. The Suns organization also denied the claims, reinforcing her statement.
On-Court Performance and Impact
Cunningham’s on-court contributions have solidified her value to the Fever. Known for her defensive prowess and three-point shooting (36.2% career average), she averaged 7.4 points and 2.1 rebounds per game over six seasons with the Mercury. In 2025, she scored in double digits for six straight games before a dip to 5 points in a July 27 win against the Chicago Sky. Despite missing early games due to an ankle injury from a preseason game, her role as a veteran leader alongside Clark has bolstered the Fever’s roster.
Why Cunningham’s Star Is Rising
Cunningham’s blend of athletic talent, bold personality, and savvy off-court ventures has made her a standout in the WNBA. Her protective actions toward Clark, viral fashion moments, and candid social media presence resonate with fans, driving her marketability. As she approaches free agency in 2026 with an unprotected contract, her future is bright, with potential for larger deals and expanded media roles.
Final words about Sophie Cunningham:
Sophie Cunningham’s net worth of $1.5 million to $2 million reflects her hard-earned success as a WNBA veteran, endorsement magnet, and emerging media personality. Her 2025 journey—marked by a high-profile trade, viral on-court and off-court moments, and controversial comments—has cemented her as a polarizing yet captivating figure. As she continues to shine with the Indiana Fever, Cunningham’s financial and cultural impact in women’s basketball is only set to grow.
FAQs of Sophie Cunningham:
What is Sophie Cunningham’s net worth in 2025?
Sophie Cunningham’s net worth is estimated at $1.5M–$2M in 2025, driven by her $100,000 WNBA salary, endorsements with Adidas and Arby’s, and real estate investments. Her viral moments and social media presence significantly boost her marketability.
What caused Sophie Cunningham’s “enforcer” nickname?
In June 2025, Cunningham was ejected for a flagrant foul defending Caitlin Clark against the Connecticut Sun’s Jacy Sheldon. The viral incident earned her the “enforcer” nickname, boosting her social media following and jersey sales.
Why did Sophie Cunningham get fined by the WNBA?
In July 2025, Cunningham was fined $500 for a TikTok video mocking WNBA referees, using Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild” lyrics. The post, viewed 1.4M times, sparked fan support and criticism of league officiating priorities.
What was Sophie Cunningham’s viral pregame outfit in 2025?
On July 27, 2025, Cunningham wore a “HOT GIRLS EAT ARBY’S” T-shirt and leather shorts before a Fever game, going viral on Instagram. The outfit, tied to her Arby’s deal, drew praise from Caitlin Clark.
What are Sophie Cunningham’s major endorsements?
In 2025, Cunningham’s endorsements include Adidas, Quest Nutrition, SKIMS, and Arby’s. Her viral “HOT GIRLS EAT ARBY’S” outfit and social media posts, especially on Instagram, have significantly increased her sponsorship earnings.
Did Sophie Cunningham address affair rumors in 2025?
In May 2025, Cunningham denied false affair rumors with Phoenix Suns CEO Josh Bartelstein on Instagram, calling them “untrue and hurtful.” The Suns organization backed her, and she refocused on her WNBA career.
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