Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham was visibly furious following her team’s preseason defeat to the Dallas Wings on Friday, where she scored just **one point** in limited action and barely touched the ball throughout the contest.
The Fever fell 95-80 to the Wings in what was expected to be a competitive tune-up game. While Caitlin Clark showed flashes with an impressive scoring outburst, Cunningham’s night was a stark contrast to her usual energetic presence. In just 14 minutes off the bench, the 6’1″ wing went 0-for-0 from the field and made 1-of-3 free throws for her lone point. She grabbed one rebound but recorded zero assists, steals, or blocks.
Postgame, Cunningham didn’t hold back her emotions. Sources close to the team described her as “livid” with both her limited involvement and the overall flow of the game. Known for her toughness, physical defense, and ability to stretch the floor with sharp three-point shooting, Cunningham has become a key piece for the Fever since joining the squad. Coming off an injury-plagued 2025 season where she averaged 8.6 points and shot over 43% from beyond the arc, fans and analysts expected more rust-shaking minutes in preseason.
The limited touches appeared to stem from a conservative approach by the coaching staff, possibly protecting players still working their way back from prior injuries. However, that didn’t sit well with the competitive veteran. Cunningham has carved out a reputation as one of the league’s feistier personalities—quick to defend teammates and unafraid to voice her opinions on the court or in media.
Teammates reportedly tried to calm the situation in the locker room, emphasizing that preseason is about evaluation and health rather than stats. Still, the contrast was noticeable: while some players received extended run to build chemistry, Cunningham felt sidelined in a game that highlighted offensive struggles for parts of the Fever roster.
This outburst underscores the high expectations surrounding Indiana heading into the 2026 regular season. With Clark leading the charge and veterans like Cunningham bringing grit and shooting, the Fever are aiming for deeper playoff contention. Cunningham’s fire could prove valuable once the real games begin, but Friday’s performance served as a rare off night that clearly stung.
As the preseason wraps up, all eyes will be on how quickly Cunningham regains her rhythm. Her frustration may light a spark for a strong bounce-back when the regular season tips off. For a player who prides herself on intensity and impact, sitting on the periphery simply isn’t in her DNA.
About the Author
