As Sophie Cunningham keeps making up for her first injury-ridden season with a blockbuster second, the Indiana Fever and fans wanted to hand her a bigger accolade.

“She gives us the juice when she comes in off the bench,” the Fever’s official X post read on August 28, 2026. “Sophie Cunningham for 6th Player of the Year.”

Those who saw Cunningham against the Las Vegas Aces on July 12 knew that her 20-point game barely looked like a reserve player’s. In June, she closed the night on the Toronto Tempo with 24 points. The 29-year-old recorded 10+ points 17 times this season.

But the stats don’t show everything. Having her teammates’ backs at any given moment, creating some of the best on-court highlights and hooping, Cunningham has done it all.

And just as the team made its case for her, so have the fans.

Fans Believe Sophie Cunningham Absolutely Deserves It

Averaging 8.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists this season, Cunningham is the league’s 2nd-highest 3P% leader (44.1), trailing only teammate Kelsey Mitchell (45.5). She’s shooting a career-high 47.6% from the field and 88.6% FTs. And fans had much to say about her impact.

“She’s been that instant spark all year, the shooting, the energy, the juice. Easy yes on 6th Player of the Year,” wrote a fan. Another agreed, “Yep, brings that energy, momentum, experience onto the court.”

Everyone knows the height Caitlin Clark has taken the Fever and the league too, from record audience, ticket sales, or just popularizing women’s basketball. Fans claimed that Cunningham is a close second by being an active voice for women’s sports.

“Sophie is the absolute best! CC is the reason I watch the W. But the next attractive option is SC!” wrote one. Another said, “Face of the WNBA, only reason anyone watches.”

In mid-June, she scored 11 points in the final two minutes to secure a win over the Connecticut Sun. Fans credited Cunningham for her unselfish plays, claiming that she comes off the bench to be the enforcer the team needs and doesn’t demand credit.

“Not only the best 6th, she entirely owns it. SC NEVER takes credit from starters. THE consummate team player, she brings instant energy and a boost as well as measured production. Tho she can be an enforcer, she does not have to flaunt it. Opponents know the Fever has a force!” wrote one.

While she’ll have Golden State Valkyries’ Janelle Salaun as a competitor, Cunningham’s current streak and her team's overall success will most likely be a favoring factor.

What’s your take on it? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Deblina Roy