Sophie Cunningham has been a trending name in the WNBA world for months, and now she is at the center of a new conversation after Sun Cruiser officially announced her as their first athlete partner. The move surprised many because it happened during her offseason, but that timing is exactly what makes the partnership stand out.
Sun Cruiser, the vodka iced tea brand backed by Boston Beer Company, wanted a face that represented relaxation, authenticity, and a refreshing break from the usual pace of sports. Choosing an athlete who is not currently in heavy competition allowed the brand to highlight the idea of unwinding without distracting from Cunningham’s active season. It aligned perfectly with the message of taking a moment to breathe and enjoy a drink.
To launch the partnership, Sun Cruiser hosted an energetic pop up event in Manhattan. Fans, influencers, and media filled the venue, where Cunningham interacted with the crowd, competed in a free throw contest, and helped introduce the brand’s story. The event was designed not just for visibility but to let people experience Cunningham’s personality up close, something the brand believes is one of her strongest assets.
Her social presence is another major advantage. With more than a million followers on both TikTok and Instagram, Cunningham has established herself as one of the most engaging voices in the league. Her follower count grew dramatically after her intense performance against the Connecticut Sun earlier this year, where she defended teammate Caitlin Clark in a moment that quickly went viral. That instant spotlight opened doors for even more deals, including new partnerships that recognize her influence beyond basketball.
Sun Cruiser has already benefited from that influence. Their recent social media content featuring Cunningham has drawn tens of thousands of likes and engagement from other Indiana Fever stars. The brand plans to continue rolling out a series of offseason collaborations that blend her personality with Sun Cruiser’s summer ready image. This partnership is not only boosting awareness for the brand but also strengthening Cunningham’s fast growing role in the marketing world.
With the company already working across NFL, MLB, and college sports venues, Sun Cruiser sees this partnership as part of a bigger push to dominate seasonal sports environments. Their presence at Gainbridge Fieldhouse through team partnerships with the Pacers and the Fever played a major role in connecting them with Cunningham. As baseball season approaches, Sun Cruiser is preparing to expand even further, emphasizing the warm weather appeal that fits perfectly with their drink.
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