Sophie Cunningham has wasted no time making waves after officially parting ways with the Indiana Fever. Just days after becoming a free agent, the fiery forward revealed a brand-new venture — one that’s got fans talking for reasons far beyond basketball.

From Fever Spotlight to New Horizons

Cunningham wrapped up her first season with the Indiana Fever earlier this year, joining the team through a blockbuster four-team trade involving the Phoenix Mercury, Dallas Wings and Connecticut Sun back in February. It was supposed to be a fresh start — and for a while, it was.

Across 30 appearances, including 13 starts, the 27-year-old guard averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game, spending over 25 minutes on the floor each night. Known for her tenacity and unfiltered energy, she quickly became a fan favourite alongside rookie superstar Caitlin Clark, giving the Fever one of the league’s most dynamic duos both on and off the court.

But in August, everything came crashing down. During an away game, Cunningham suffered a torn MCL that abruptly ended her season. What followed was months of rehab and silence — until now.

A Surprise Career Pivot

On Monday, alcoholic tea brand Sun Cruiser announced Cunningham as its newest ambassador, marking her first major move since becoming a free agent.

“Grab a Sun Cruiser and give a toast to @sophie_cham, our newest partner in the Sun Cruiser fam,” the brand posted on social media. “We’re kicking off the fun with a party in NYC this week.”

Within hours, fans flooded the comments section, celebrating the signing as both a comeback statement and a hint that Cunningham is already preparing for life beyond basketball. Some joked that she’s “taking her shot” off the court now, while others praised her business instincts.

The announcement follows a series of lucrative deals Cunningham has secured in the past year, including partnerships with Arby’s, Ring, Adidas, and more. It’s clear that while her season may have ended early, her star power hasn’t dimmed one bit.

“I Can’t Just Not Look at Other Opportunities”

Cunningham has always been unapologetically ambitious. In an interview back in October, she hinted that she wouldn’t rule out exploring options outside the Fever once her contract expired.

“I might be blonde,” she joked, “but I can’t just not look at other opportunities.”

Her comment, while lighthearted, now feels prophetic. With her WNBA future still uncertain and her recovery ongoing, this new partnership could mark the start of a broader career shift — one that blends her athletic edge with commercial savvy.

Uncertain Future with the Fever

The big question remains: will Cunningham return to the Fever next season? For now, nothing’s official. She’s currently a free agent, and while the team has expressed interest in bringing back several of its core players, Cunningham’s situation remains up in the air.

The Fever’s focus will likely be on rebuilding around Caitlin Clark after a rollercoaster rookie year that brought record viewership and sold-out arenas. Whether Cunningham fits into that long-term vision is unclear. Her injury, timing, and growing brand portfolio may push her toward new ventures — or even a new team.

Still, sources close to Cunningham have said she’s determined to return to full health by the start of the 2026 season, which tips off in May. Her rehab is reportedly going well, and she’s maintained a visible presence on social media, where she continues to engage with fans and show support for her teammates.

From Court to Camera

What makes Cunningham unique is her natural ability to balance toughness with charm. Her candid interviews, sense of humour, and fiery on-court persona have made her one of the league’s most recognizable personalities.

Even while sidelined, she’s managed to keep her spotlight burning. Whether it’s through viral locker room moments, training clips, or now a national beverage campaign, Cunningham knows how to stay relevant — and relatable.

What’s Next for Sophie Cunningham

As she toasts her new chapter with Sun Cruiser, one thing’s for certain: Sophie Cunningham isn’t sitting still. The road to recovery is far from over, but she’s already proving that her influence extends well beyond the hardwood.

She may not be suiting up for the Fever right now, but she’s still in the game — just one with a different kind of spotlight.