Sophie Cunningham Debuts in SI Swimsuit, Announces WNBA Broadcasting Career
WNBA star Sophie Cunningham is making waves in both basketball and modeling. The 29-year-old athlete has officially joined the roster for the 2026 SI Swimsuit issue. Her stunning photography was captured by Katherine Goguen at the South Seas Resort in Captiva Island, Florida. The magazine will hit newsstands next month.
Cunningham’s Basketball Journey
Cunningham has a rich history in basketball. She started playing as a child and excelled at Rock Bridge High School in her hometown, Columbia, Missouri. She went on to achieve a remarkable milestone as the all-time leading scorer at the University of Missouri, racking up 2,187 points.
Her professional career began when she was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft. After a successful stint, she was traded to the Indiana Fever in January 2025. Currently, Cunningham is an unrestricted free agent as she prepares for the upcoming WNBA season.
New Broadcasting Role
In addition to her modeling career, Cunningham has announced her new role as an athlete contributor on the USA Network for USA Sports. This will coincide with the ongoing WNBA season, offering fans deeper insights into the game.
Community Impact and Empowerment
Cunningham’s journey has garnered excitement from fans and fellow athletes alike. After the news broke, fellow SI Swimsuit models and fans celebrated her achievements on social media.
- Penny Lane, a three-time brand model, expressed her excitement with fire emojis.
- University of Missouri’s women’s assistant coach, Liza Fruendt, praised Cunningham, calling her a superstar.
- Fans and followers commented on her Instagram, showcasing their support and admiration.
During her time on set for SI Swimsuit, Cunningham shared her feelings about the experience, calling it liberating and empowering. “This is probably one of the most empowering things that I have done ever,” she remarked. She emphasized the importance of having a winning mindset both on and off the court.
Sophie Cunningham continues to inspire on multiple fronts, blending her passions for basketball and modeling seamlessly. Congratulations to her on these exciting new ventures!
