Sophie Cunningham doesn't mind adding a little humor to situations, and she resorted to the same ways a day ago.

The Indiana Fever guard's visit back home to Missouri prompted her to showcase her playful side, as she shared a lighthearted post on X that blended hometown pride with humor.

Sitting in Missouri Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger's throne, the former Mizzou star joked about her growing local popularity. “I know some people say I’m the Mayor of Columbia, but I’ve been thinking BIGGER here lately,” she wrote. “Governor Cunningham might have a better ring to it. Scoot over @GovMikeKehoe.”

Cunnigham's post subtly displayed a moment of confidence from a small-town Midwest girl to a pro-level athlete. The 29-year-old also made Google’s Most Searched Athletes list in 2025. Cunningham was in 7th spot as the only female athlete in the top 10, even outrunning Fever teammate Caitlin Clark.

Sophie Cunningham’s return to Missouri was more than a random visit

She flew home to host the annual Sophie Cunningham Classic event. It aims to uplift and help local kids grow without having to leave their region.

Being her most authentic self, she spent Day 1, on January 9, wearing a Missouri sweatshirt. She met young athletes, parents, and fans across the Columbia College campus, personally making sure every kid felt seen.

Moreover, her words echoed a sense of belonging reflected in her WNBA journey. In an interview with KRGC Newsroom, she said, "I think my favorite W moment is actually getting traded to the Indiana Fever. Being back in the Midwest culture has been absolutely amazing… just having a new start was huge."

With free agency looming in 2026, she acknowledged the uncertainty of her future at the Fever with humor and honesty: “So I'm just grateful I'm a… well, I guess I was — I don't know if I will be a Fever — but just getting traded was pretty cool.”

It remains to be seen which jersey she finally sports for the upcoming season.

Written by

Fatema Kapasi

Edited by

Souvik Roy