Sophie Cunningham's career trajectory has taken a new turn of events, but this time it is not related to her on-court basketball career.

While Cunningham is not expected to retire by next season, she has spoken about her passion for broadcasting and how she hopes to make a career in the field once she’s done playing professional basketball. The 29-year-old announced on Instagram late Tuesday that she’s joining USA Sports as a contributor for the 2026 season.

“I’m back, baby, and with a NEW SQUAAAAD!! I’m joining the @usasports team throughout the year to contribute to studio coverage of @wnba games on @usanetwork 🏀👊🏼🔥” Cunningham posted on Instagram.

For fans who have been following the 29-year-old, this does not come as a big surprise.

“I just love sports, I love talking to people, and learning their stories. I love the ‘why.’ When I get asked to [commentate] for basketball, I know the game, I have the IQ for it. Cunningham told Sports Illustrated.

She added, "I see plays, I see why they do different schemes. You get to break down these elite-level players and why they do what they do. I find it so fascinating, and I understand it. And, for some reason, people like to hear me break it down."

It’s unknown at this time how many games Cunningham will contribute to this season on the USA Network.

However, this is not Cunningham’s first stint as a broadcaster. She also served as a guest analyst for the Phoenix Suns’ broadcast team during the 2022-23 NBA season. At that time, Cunningham was still with the Phoenix Mercury.    

It is also worth noting that Cunningham is an unrestricted free agent for the Indiana Fever. She averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in her short stint before getting sidelined prematurely with an MCL injury in August.

The Fever is likely to work out a new contract with Cunningham by the time Saturday comes. Now the question remains how the 29-year-old will balance playing basketball as well as being on the mic. Let's not forget she also runs a popular podcast entitled "Show Me Something".

Meanwhile, fans on social media are just as confused regarding Cunningham's latest announcement, as a plethora of questions have already been asked.

Fans are Perplexed Over Sophie Cunningham's Latest Announcement

Most fans expressed concern about Cunningham taking on a new gig on top of her day job as a professional basketball player. But a few put their thoughts out there that the 29-year-old is making a good decision.

"So she’s not playing???" One fan asked. “This is a side gig, right? Because you’ll be playing with the Fever all season?!?!?” another user reiterated.

"How can someone be an active player and be a contributor? Is that possible?" One user doubted as to whether Cunningham would be eligible to do double duty as an active player. But another fan replied to clear his concerns, "Kyle Lowry is a contributor for NBA on Prime as an active player." So yes, it is possible.

"I have listened to her do Suns games in the past, and she is really good. Love her or hate her, she is really building her brand in multiple ways off the court." Another fan penned his excitement for Cunningham pursuing a role she is good at.

"This, after an injury.. maybe she’s not coming back as a player." One user had their doubts regarding Cunningham's latest antics.

So, do you think that Sophie Cunningham is slowly drawing the line on her on-court career? Will she become a full-time broadcaster a few years from now?

Follow She Got Game for more

Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Souvik Roy