2 Minutes Ago: WNBA Goes Nuts After Sophie Cunningham Announces Shocking Injury Update

Just moments ago, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham shocked the WNBA world by announcing a major and unexpected update about her injury status—one that no one saw coming.

Cunningham, who had been sidelined with a lingering shoulder injury sustained in late July, took to social media and later appeared in a press conference to confirm what fans feared: her injury is worse than initially reported, and she may miss the remainder of the 2025 WNBA season.

“I’ve done everything I could to rehab and push through,” Cunningham said, holding back tears. “But after more scans and a second opinion, we discovered further complications that mean I need extended recovery—potentially even surgery.”

Shocking Turn of Events

Originally expected to miss only a few weeks, Cunningham had hinted earlier this month that she was making progress. But in a stunning twist, team doctors reportedly discovered a partial labrum tear, along with nerve inflammation, that had been previously undetected.

“It’s one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make,” she said. “But continuing to play would risk permanent damage.”

The WNBA community exploded with reactions. Within minutes of the announcement, players, fans, and analysts flooded social media with messages of support, shock, and disappointment over losing one of the league’s most passionate and vocal leaders.

Fever’s Playoff Hopes Take Another Hit

For the Indiana Fever, already struggling to stay in playoff contention amid Caitlin Clark’s own injury battle, this is a devastating blow. Cunningham brought fire, toughness, and veteran experience to the team—often taking on the defensive assignments no one else wanted and setting the emotional tone in the locker room.

Head coach Sandy Brondello expressed her support but acknowledged the setback.

“We’re gutted for Sophie. She’s a warrior, and this team feels her absence deeply. But her health has to come first,” Brondello said.

The Fever will now be forced to lean more heavily on their younger players and bench depth. With just a handful of games left in the regular season, the margin for error is razor thin.

Fans Rally Behind Sophie

Despite the heartbreak, fans have rallied behind Cunningham. The hashtag #ComeBackStrongerSophie began trending just 30 minutes after the news broke. WNBA stars like Kelsey Plum, Nneka Ogwumike, and Alyssa Thomas all posted supportive messages online.

“Tough as nails. One of the real ones. You’ll be back stronger, Soph,” wrote Seattle Storm’s Jewell Loyd on X (formerly Twitter).

Cunningham herself seemed determined to keep contributing—hinting she may stay involved from the sidelines to support the Fever’s playoff push.

“Whether I’m on the court or not, I’m not leaving this team. I’ll be the loudest one on the bench,” she said with a smile.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7fZ1iQyfKw

What’s Next?

While it’s unclear if Cunningham will require surgery, she stated she’ll make that decision within the week after consulting further with specialists. Either way, her absence marks a huge turning point in the Fever’s season—and possibly in her own career trajectory.

One thing’s for sure: the WNBA won’t be the same without Sophie’s energy on the court.