Sophie Cunningham Debuts SI Swimsuit and Announces WNBA Broadcasting Career
WNBA star Sophie Cunningham has made significant career strides by joining the lineup for the 2026 SI Swimsuit edition. The 29-year-old athlete’s photoshoot took place at the South Seas Resort on Captiva Island, Florida, and will feature in the upcoming magazine, set to hit newsstands next month.
Sophie Cunningham: A Rising Star in Sports and Media
Cunningham’s journey in basketball began in her childhood in Columbia, Missouri. She played for Rock Bridge High School and eventually became the University of Missouri’s all-time leading scorer, amassing 2,187 points. Her professional career started when the Phoenix Mercury drafted her as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft. In January 2025, she was traded to the Indiana Fever and is currently an unrestricted free agent.
New Broadcasting Role
As she prepares for the 2026 WNBA season, Cunningham has announced another career milestone. She will join USA Sports as an athlete contributor on the USA Network throughout the season. This dual role in sports and media marks an exciting chapter for the talented player.
Community and Fan Support
Cunningham’s debut in SI Swimsuit has garnered a warm welcome from fellow models and fans. Celebrated for her inspiring approach, she shared how empowering the photoshoot was for her. “This is probably one of the most empowering things that I have done ever,” Cunningham expressed, highlighting her commitment to maintaining a winner’s mindset both on the court and in life.
Social Media Buzz
The announcement triggered a flurry of supportive reactions on social media:
- Three-time SI model Penny Lane praised her with fire emojis.
- Rookie model Tunde Oyeneyin echoed the excitement with similar sentiments.
- The official Show Me Something podcast, cohosted by Cunningham, celebrated her achievement with enthusiasm.
- University of Missouri women’s assistant coach Liza Fruendt commended her as a superstar.
With these recent accomplishments, Sophie Cunningham continues to shine in both the sports and media arenas. Her accomplishments reflect her dedication, strength, and the ability to inspire others.
