Sophie Cunningham’s 2025 season with the Indiana Fever ended earlier than expected after she injured her right knee during a game against the Connecticut Sun. Medical evaluations later confirmed a torn medial collateral ligament, an injury that typically requires months of careful rehabilitation. At the time of the injury, Cunningham had already established herself as a reliable rotation player in her first season with Indiana after six years with the Phoenix Mercury. Her absence was felt immediately, as the Fever lost a player known for energy, defensive toughness, and floor spacing.
Before the injury, Cunningham averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, numbers that reflected her efficiency rather than high usage. She provided consistent three point shooting and physical perimeter defense, traits that complemented Indiana’s young core. Her intensity also led to a widely discussed on court moment when she committed a flagrant foul while defending Caitlin Clark, resulting in a one game suspension. That incident highlighted her competitive edge and her willingness to protect teammates, a quality often valued in playoff level teams.
This Sophie Cunningham rehab update has gained traction largely because of how openly she has shared the process. Rather than keeping her recovery private, she has posted behind the scenes clips showing the daily work involved in returning from a knee injury.
Here is a link to her rehab clip.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DTO2RrujO0I/?igsh=MXMzdjR5MDQ1cnl2OA==
These updates have included strength training, treadmill sessions, flexibility work, and Pilates based exercises designed to rebuild stability and range of motion. The content has resonated with fans while also showing the physical and mental demands placed on professional athletes during long layoffs.
Reports surrounding her offseason program suggest that Cunningham is progressing well and may be ahead of schedule. Her recent workouts have included more advanced drills that mimic basketball movements, a key step in transitioning from rehab to full readiness. While no official return date has been announced, expectations point toward her being available for the start of the 2026 WNBA season if recovery continues without setbacks. For Indiana, that timeline matters as the franchise looks to build continuity and depth around its core players.
Off the court, Cunningham has remained active and visible within the basketball community. She continues to co host the podcast Show Me Something, where she discusses her rehab experience, mindset, and broader topics related to life as a professional athlete. This period has also coincided with free agency, as her one year contract with the Fever expired at the end of the 2025 season. That reality adds another layer to her rehab, since her health and readiness will influence how teams evaluate her value moving forward.
For the Indiana Fever, this Sophie Cunningham rehab update carries practical implications beyond individual recovery. The team is still shaping its identity and depth, and a healthy Cunningham would offer versatility on the wing along with veteran experience. Her ability to defend, space the floor, and bring emotional intensity fits well with a roster centered on young talent. Whether she returns to Indiana or signs elsewhere, her recovery will play a role in roster planning across the league.
Comment Section Prompt
What do you think Sophie Cunningham’s return could mean for the Indiana Fever next season?
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