The CBA negotiations between the WNBA and the players’ association have been one of the biggest stories in October. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham shared her insights on the talks on Friday as her podcast co-host, West Wilson, fired a message to Cathy Engelbert.
During an episode of their podcast ‘Show Me Something’, the duo discussed the ongoing CBA talks and the 30-day extension, as Cunningham offered her perception on the topic.
“I actually learned a lot because we have been having CPA calls,” Cunningham expressed.”So I thought that if we didn’t have an agreement by the 31st, then it was a lockout, but that’s not true. If both sides are continuing to negotiate and trying to come up with something, then you’re not in a lockout … That’s news to me.” Timestamp (27:20 onwards)
Continuing to speak on the topic, Cunningham revealed how she found the talks “fascinating” before claiming she was going to “sit back and listen.”
“It’s been very fascinating just seeing the ins and outs of the negotiation conversations, what they’re doing, what they’re not doing, what we’re doing, what we’re not doing. It’s been kind of cool just to sit back and listen” she continued.
Her revelation about wanting to “sit back and listen” caught the attention of Wilson, who noted the change in Cunningham before directing a pointed message toward Cathy Engelbert.
“Guys, did everyone hear that? Sophie Cunningham just said it’s nice to sit back and listen. Put it on a t-shirt. Cathy, she’s listening,” he remarked. (Timestamp: 28:12 onwards)
The current CBA deal expired on Friday, but negotiations will continue into November as the WNBAPA agreed to a 30-day extension. However, the extension comes with a clause, allowing the union to terminate discussions with 48 hours’ prior notice.
Sophie Cunningham casts doubt over her future with the Fever as her co-host discusses potential teams amid CBA negotiations
Sophie Cunningham enjoyed a successful 2025 season with the Indiana Fever, becoming a beloved figure among fans and her teammates. However, the guard cast a doubt over her future during Friday’s episode of her podcast while discussing her “next team.”
“I think the next team I play for, I want a bigger contract, so then I can buy a house and be homey and cozy,” Cunningham expressed. (Timestamp: 26:50 onwards).
Her co-host furthered the discussion, listing possible destinations for the guard.
“Wow. That’s crazy. That could be the Liberty. It could be New York City. It could also be the Lunx and it could be Minneapolis. Like, you just don’t know. Could be anywhere,” he remarked.
Cunningham signed a 1-year $100,000 contract last term and is set to be a free agent. With the current CBA deal set to offer a larger salary cap, we could see the guard moving to a new team for a bigger payday.
Edited by Arian Kashyap
