Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham is reportedly exploring the possibility of releasing a tell-all book, with publishing industry sources indicating she is currently shopping the project. The 6-foot-1 guard, who has gained a significant online following, could be the subject of a competitive bidding war for the manuscript.
Cunningham, 29, has become known for her outspokenness on and off the court, earning the nickname “MAGA Barbie.” Her public statements on transgender athletes in sports have recently drawn attention. In an interview with ESPN last month, Cunningham addressed criticism, stating, "I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans… And I’m like, ‘I never once said that.’" She clarified her position, saying, "I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men."
These remarks have led to protests, though some, like Stephen A. Smith, have publicly supported her stance. On August 2, Cunningham was seen posing with Riley Gaines, a former college swimmer and activist who advocates against the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports, at a Fever vs. Lynx game. This interaction drew criticism from former U.S. soccer star Megan Rapinoe.
Cunningham also recently made headlines after a flagrant foul by rival player DiJonai Carrington. Carrington subsequently posted on social media, referencing “WHITE PRIVILEGE.” Cunningham responded to reporters, stating, “This has nothing to do with race… Last year, I did the same thing, and I got kicked out. And I deserved to be kicked out. There’s no reason even to play that card.”
Beyond her basketball career, Cunningham has explored other ventures. She has appeared as a UFC ring card girl and has reportedly been approached by WWE regarding wrestling. She has also been featured as a model in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Cunningham played collegiately at Missouri, where she became the team's all-time leading scorer. She was selected 13th overall in the 2019 WNBA draft by the Phoenix Mercury. Traded to the Indiana Fever last year, she plays alongside star teammate Caitlin Clark. Recent reports indicate that her Adidas-branded shoes sold out rapidly, and she currently holds two of the top five best-selling WNBA jerseys. A representative for Cunningham did not immediately respond to requests for comment.