Sophie Cunningham is known for her tenacity and big-time energy as well as her bright smile and charisma. Whether she’s shooting three-pointers for the Phoenix Mercury, lighting up post-game interviews with her sharp wit, or voicing her views on social issues, Sophie commands attention. Here’s an inside look at her life – both on and off the court.
Sophie Cunningham keeps her love life private, rarely sharing details in interviews or on social media. Despite fans’ growing curiosity, as of mid-2024, Sophie has yet to confirm a public relationship or partner. She has said in previous interviews that she is focused on her basketball career and values her privacy off the court. While fans sometimes speculate about her dating life, she has made it clear that she prefers to keep her work, not her relationships, in the spotlight.
Born on August 16, 1996, in Columbia, Missouri, Sophie Cunningham is currently 27 years old. She is in the prime of her career and has achieved major milestones in the NCAA and WNBA.
Sophie played college basketball for the University of Missouri (Mizzou Tigers), where she became one of the most decorated players in program history. She was a two-time All-American, a three-time All-SEC First Team selection, and finished her career as Missouri’s all-time leading scorer.
Sophie was selected 13th overall in the 2019 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. Known for her energy, three-point shooting ability, and ability to defend multiple positions, she quickly became a fan favorite. Her fearless style of play, willingness to fight for every possession, and infectious enthusiasm embody the new wave of talent in the WNBA.
She played a key role in the playoffs, and her on-court chemistry with league legends like Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi further elevated her profile.
Like many WNBA players, Sophie also played professionally overseas during the WNBA offseason, most notably for teams in Australia’s WNBL, where she continued to develop her game and grow her global fan base.
Family is at the core of Cunningham’s identity. Sophie was born into an athletic family in Columbia, Missouri. Her parents, Jim and Paula Cunningham, have always supported her athletic ambitions. She has an older sister, Lindsey, who played basketball at Missouri and inspired Sophie to take the game seriously.
Sophie often shares on social media about the role her family plays in keeping her grounded and motivated. The Cunningham family regularly attends her games and are among her biggest cheerleaders.
During the WNBA season, Sophie spends most of her time in Phoenix, Arizona, where the Mercury are based. While she keeps the details of her whereabouts private for security reasons, it is known that she enjoys a comfortable life in Phoenix. During the offseason, she often returns to her hometown of Missouri to reunite with family and friends.
With her busy schedule—which includes playing overseas and her WNBA commitments—Sophie doesn’t spend much time in one place, but she emphasizes the importance of making wherever she is a home, filled with “good vibes and good people.”
Net Worth
WNBA salaries have historically been lower than their NBA counterparts, but Sophie Cunningham has supplemented her income through overseas contracts and endorsement deals. As of 2024, Sophie’s estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 million. This includes her WNBA contracts (rookie contracts and subsequent extensions), endorsement deals, and earnings from international play.
She is also involved in charitable causes and public appearances—which, along with her growing social media presence, contribute to her financial picture.
Sophie leads an active, outdoorsy lifestyle—her Instagram highlights hikes, beach vacations, time spent with friends, and moments of self-care. She’s passionate about fitness, and you’ll often find her advocating for healthy living, positive mental health, and giving back to the community.
Off the court, she’s known for her humor (don’t miss her post-game interviews!), her style—including bold fashion choices—and her advocacy for women’s sports and equality. Sophie is also actively involved in youth basketball camps, using her platform to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Nickname: “Sizzle,” thanks to her bubbly personality on the court.
Hobbies: Boating, pickleball, hiking, and country music. Coaching young athletes and participating in charity events, especially in Missouri and Phoenix.
Sophie Cunningham is a force on the court, an inspiration off the court, and one of the WNBA’s most charismatic personalities. Whether she’s battling in the big time, cracking jokes with opponents, or leading community outreach, Sophie brings her signature “sizzle” wherever she goes. Her story is a testament to hard work, family, resilience, and being yourself—making her a role model for basketball fans (and dreamers) everywhere.
