Sophie Cunningham Dishes on Indiana Fever’s Semifinal Matchup Against A’ja Wilson’s Las Vegas Aces

While the Indiana Fever prepare for their biggest test yet — a semifinal clash with the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces — one of the WNBA’s most outspoken players is offering her take. Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham, known for her fiery personality and unfiltered commentary, joined a national podcast this week to break down what she sees coming in the Fever–Aces series.

Cunningham praised Indiana’s transformation from lottery team to legitimate contender, pointing to Caitlin Clark’s poise and the emergence of Aliyah Boston and Lexie Hull as reasons the Fever have “nothing to lose and everything to gain.” She told listeners that the Aces will have their hands full with Indiana’s speed and willingness to attack the rim early. “They’re young, they’re fearless, and they don’t care about anyone’s résumé,” she said. “That’s dangerous for a team that’s used to dictating the tempo.”

At the same time, Cunningham reminded fans that Las Vegas remains the gold standard. With A’ja Wilson playing at an MVP level and Chelsea Gray running the show, the Aces can still impose their will on any opponent. She noted that Indiana’s biggest challenge will be limiting the Aces’ second-chance points and staying disciplined on defense when the game slows down. “You can’t give them extra possessions,” Cunningham warned. “That’s when they bury you.”

Her comments quickly circulated on social media, with Fever fans applauding her candid breakdown and Aces fans pointing to her analysis as proof of Las Vegas’ continued dominance. It’s rare to see an active player weigh in so openly on a rival team’s playoff matchup, but Cunningham has built a reputation for speaking her mind and bringing extra heat to the league’s storylines.

As the Fever get ready for Game 1, Cunningham’s words have only added intrigue to an already electric series. Indiana enters with momentum and belief; Las Vegas enters with experience and rings. According to Cunningham, that mix could produce one of the most compelling playoff showdowns in recent WNBA memory — and perhaps even an upset if the Fever can execute their game plan to perfection.