Sophie Cunningham to Contribute to USA Sports for 2026 WNBA Season
Sophie Cunningham, a rising star in the WNBA, is set to take on a new role with USA Sports for the 2026 season. On Tuesday, Cunningham made a significant announcement via her Instagram account, revealing that she will contribute to USA Sports. Her responsibilities will include participating in select studio shows, digital content, and special segments during the upcoming WNBA season.
Sophie Cunningham’s Broadcasting Experience
Cunningham is no stranger to sports broadcasting. She has previously worked as a recurring analyst for Phoenix Suns broadcasts. Last summer, she launched her own podcast, “Show Me Something,” in collaboration with West Wilson and Colin Cowherd’s The Volume. This podcast has garnered nearly 50,000 subscribers on YouTube, where it has made headlines for various topics, including:
- Defending Caitlin Clark.
- Critiquing WNBA referees leading to fines.
- Challenging sports commentator Skip Bayless.
In January, she secured representation with 3 Arts Entertainment for her off-court endeavors.
USA Sports and WNBA Coverage
USA Sports is expanding its coverage of the WNBA in various ways. This follows an 11-year agreement signed with the league in September, which guarantees the airing of at least 50 games per season. Cunningham will join a distinguished broadcast team that includes:
- Elle Duncan – Studio Anchor
- Renee Montgomery – Co-host
- Tamika Catchings and Chamique Holdsclaw – Analysts
- Kate Scott and Meghan McPeak – Play-by-Play Commentators
- Sarah Kustok – Color Commentator
- Paris Lawson and Edona Thaqi – Additional Contributors
Versant’s Influence on WNBA Media
The recent media landscape shift has seen USA Sports emerge under the Versant sports division, following a split from NBC Universal. This restructuring enhances the focus on women’s sports, with plans to provide significant coverage for years to come. Notably, USA Sports will benefit from the WNBA rights included in the NBA’s new media agreements with major networks like NBC, ESPN, and Amazon.
Cunningham’s Recent Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite her exciting new role, Cunningham has faced setbacks. In August, she suffered an MCL tear in her right knee, which sidelined her after just 30 games in the previous season. Before her injury, she contributed an average of 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. As the WNBA’s negotiating period opens, she remains an unrestricted free agent, ready to make her mark both on and off the court.
