Sophie Cunningham’s Quiet Struggle Sparks Controversy in Indiana Fever
After the Indiana Fever’s fifth consecutive win, a whispered phrase rocked the WNBA: “I was completely open — and they knew it.” Captured accidentally by a live mic, Sophie Cunningham’s words revealed a deeper tension within the team.
Despite shooting 4-of-5 from beyond the arc, Cunningham was repeatedly ignored in crucial moments. Veteran Kelsey Mitchell, struggling with a 2-for-15 night, took significantly more shots, sparking outrage among fans and analysts alike.
A leaked, unconfirmed Instagram message from Cunningham to Mitchell—“You want the spotlight? Take it. Just don’t look for me when it matters.”—fueled the fire. Social media exploded with the hashtag #SheWasOpen, as fans dissected game footage showing Cunningham standing unguarded yet overlooked.
Reports describe a “cold” locker room and canceled media sessions. While Cunningham practiced alone, Mitchell reportedly avoided teammates.
This unfolding drama highlights a fracture in team trust during a crucial winning streak. As silence from the Fever persists, fans and insiders question: Why deny the hottest shooter the ball?
