Sophie Elizabeth Cunningham, born on August 16, 1996, in Columbia, Missouri, is an American professional basketball player renowned for her dynamic presence on the court.

Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 170 pounds, she plays as a shooting guard for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Beyond her athletic prowess, Sophie has ventured into sports analysis, serving as a recurring analyst for the Phoenix Suns’ broadcasts.

Early Life and Family Background

Sophie Cunningham Receives Blunt Message From NBA Superstar on Tuesday -  Athlon Sports

Sophie Cunningham was born and raised in Columbia, Missouri, into a family with a rich athletic heritage.

Her mother, Paula, was a collegiate javelin thrower, and her father, Jim, played football.

This environment fostered a passion for sports in Sophie from a young age.

She has an older sister, Lindsey, who also excelled in basketball and currently serves as the Assistant Director of Development for the Missouri State Tigers.

Growing up, Sophie often competed against her sister, honing her skills and developing a competitive edge that would define her future career.

Education and Early Basketball Endeavors

Sophie Cunningham Had Words After Fever's Preseason Win Over Mystics -  Athlon Sports

Sophie attended Rock Bridge High School in Columbia, where she led the basketball team to multiple state championships.

Her exceptional performance earned her a scholarship to the University of Missouri, where she played for the Missouri Tigers from 2015 to 2019.

During her collegiate career, Sophie became the all-time leading scorer for the Tigers, amassing 2,187 points.

She was recognized as the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2016 and earned First-Team All-SEC honors three times.

Her leadership and talent were instrumental in leading the team to several NCAA Tournament appearances.

Professional Career and Key Milestones

WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham Makes Fun Announcement

In the 2019 WNBA Draft, Sophie was selected 13th overall by the Phoenix Mercury, making her the highest-drafted player from the University of Missouri at that time.

She quickly established herself as a valuable asset to the team, known for her versatility, sharp shooting, and defensive prowess.

Throughout her tenure with the Mercury, Sophie has been instrumental in several key victories and has become a fan favorite for her tenacity and passion on the court.

Personal Life and Relationships

A HOM3TOWN GIRL | Inside Columbia

Sophie Cunningham is known to keep her personal life private.

As of now, there is no public information regarding her relationship status.

She remains focused on her professional career and often shares insights into her life through her social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where she engages with fans and provides glimpses into her off-court activities.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Sophie Cunningham's Phoenix Guide | Top Local Favorites

As of 2024, Sophie’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million.

Her income primarily stems from her WNBA contracts, endorsements, and her role as a sports analyst.

In 2023, she signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix Mercury worth $304,500, with an average annual salary of $152,250.

Additionally, Sophie has endorsement deals with brands like Adidas and Skims, contributing to her overall earnings.

She leads a lifestyle that reflects her dedication to her sport, often sharing her training routines and travels with her followers.

Recent Developments and Future Endeavors

Sophie Cunningham rocks western vibes in bikini and cowboy hat during Fever  break | Sporting News

In December 2022, Sophie expanded her horizons by joining the Phoenix Suns’ broadcast team as a guest analyst, showcasing her deep understanding of the game and her charismatic presence.

This move has been well-received, and she continues to balance her playing career with her broadcasting duties.

Looking ahead, Sophie aims to further her impact both on and off the court, with aspirations to delve deeper into sports media and continue her advocacy for women’s sports.