Indiana Fever general manager Amber Cox has said that outside distractions will not shape how the team assesses guard Sophie Cunningham, who is heading into unrestricted free agency. Cox spoke to the media just days after the WNBA season ended. Asked whether the attention around Cunningham’s comments during the season would affect the organisation’s evaluation, he answered “No” quickly.
Cox said the front office judges players on what they contribute on the floor and within the team’s culture, not on what they read in media coverage. The question has drawn wide attention from fans, media and analysts as the offseason begins.
Cox praises Cunningham’s play and leadership
Cox said he was impressed by Cunningham’s competitiveness and veteran presence on the roster. He pointed first to her shooting. “From a shooting aspect, Sophie’s had two really productive years for us,” he said.
He also described her as a solid locker room leader and a good connector who brings both levity and experience. Cox said the club is leaving some flexibility in the contract talks.
Cunningham re-signed on a one-year contract to return to Indiana, where she was a dependable perimeter shooter. That deal has since expired, making her an unrestricted free agent free to seek out her next NBA home.
Early talks as free agency approaches
Cox acknowledged that the offseason is still very early and that real negotiations between the club and Cunningham’s agents have not yet progressed far. “We’ll look forward to having those discussions,” he said, “because she’s an unrestricted free agent.”
He added that Cunningham had a very good year and that there is still time before free agency. With the Fever assessing their needs, from frontcourt depth to scoring from the defensive wing positions, Cunningham’s next move is set to be one of the top storylines of the WNBA offseason.
