Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham discusses the team's playoff berth, the impact of social media on the WNBA, and her attention-grabbing pregame outfits that have become a topic of conversation among fans.
Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham is a force both on and off the court. With the team clinching its 14th playoff appearance in the last 16 seasons, Cunningham has been making headlines not only for her performance but also for her bold fashion choices.
One of her pregame outfits, inspired by the reality show "Love Island," went viral on social media last week, revealing her summer tan lines and leaving fans buzzing. Despite a few critical comments, Cunningham says the look was mom-approved.
Sophie Cunningham Talks WNBA Playoffs, Viral Pregame Outfits
"I was talking to someone, and I was like, 'Actually my mom picked that outfit out,'" Cunningham told Fox News Digital with a laugh. "Everyone's all in my comments about, 'Oh, your parents --' and I'm like, actually, that was my mom's doing. But, no, I had no idea," she added when asked if she thought the tan line reveal would be so controversial.
This incident highlights the growing interest in the WNBA and its players. Cunningham sees the attention on her pregame outfits as a sign of the times, as the league has witnessed record viewership and attendance this season. Fans are now showing more interest not just in the game, but also in the players' lives off the court.
Sophie Cunningham Talks WNBA Playoffs, Viral Pregame Outfits
"I do think it's super cool that people are interested in what we do off the court now. Our tunnel fits have been a fashion show, and people are so excited and intrigued about what we're going to wear," Cunningham said.
Cunningham has continued to turn heads with her pregame looks, teasing another "feisty" ensemble for the upcoming game against the Washington Mystics.
Sophie Cunningham Talks WNBA Playoffs, Viral Pregame Outfits
"I will say that tomorrow I actually have a new fit that I haven't done, and it's actually representing Quest, and it's going to be feisty, it's going to be sassy, and hopefully it turns some heads," she said.
In addition to her fashion sense, Cunningham is also an advocate for healthy living and nutrition. She recently partnered with Quest Nutrition to promote its new line of protein-packed brownies and muffins.
Sophie Cunningham Talks WNBA Playoffs, Viral Pregame Outfits
"As a pro athlete, how you fuel your body is super, super important... Really anyone, it's a lifestyle," she said of her motivation to get involved. "I just think that Quest does a phenomenal job of making sure that you're eating well, and you're fueling your body well, but you're not losing out on how delicious it is, and you're not guilty about having to maybe eat two of those brownies at one time."
With the playoffs approaching, Cunningham and the Mercury are focused on maintaining their winning ways. Phoenix will host Washington on Thursday at 10 p.m. ET.
As the WNBA continues to captivate fans both on and off the court, players like Sophie Cunningham are not only showcasing their athleticism but also making their mark as style icons, sparking conversations about fashion, inclusion, and the changing landscape of women's sports.
