The Indiana Fever have made a bold move by adding Sophie Cunningham to their roster, and after her first workout with the team, it’s clear they’re in for something special. Known for her scoring ability and fiery competitive spirit, Cunningham’s arrival in Indiana has already turned heads. Her debut workout was nothing short of impressive, as she demonstrated why she’s one of the most exciting players in the WNBA.

Let’s break down every basket Sophie Cunningham made during her first practice session with the Fever, and what this could mean for the team moving forward.

A Quick Intro to Sophie Cunningham

Before diving into the specifics of her first workout, it’s important to highlight who Sophie Cunningham is and why her addition to the Indiana Fever is so significant. A standout player at the University of Missouri, Cunningham has been a consistent offensive threat in the WNBA since being drafted. Known for her sharpshooting, toughness, and leadership on the floor, Cunningham is the type of player who can change the course of a game with just a few possessions.

After spending time with the Phoenix Mercury, her move to the Fever is seen as a fresh start and an opportunity to showcase her full potential. The Fever have been rebuilding over the past few seasons, and Cunningham’s arrival is a sign that they are ready to take their game to the next level.

The First Workout: A Sneak Peek of What’s to Come

Cunningham’s first workout with the Fever was much anticipated, and she didn’t disappoint. From the moment she stepped onto the court, it was evident that she had a strong connection with her new teammates, and her chemistry with the coaching staff was already on display.

The Three-Point Shot: An Instant Impact

Cunningham wasted no time showing off her shooting range. Throughout the workout, she consistently knocked down three-pointers from all areas of the court. Whether it was in transition or coming off screens, her shooting form looked smooth and confident. One of her first baskets was a catch-and-shoot three from the top of the arc, which swished cleanly through the net, drawing immediate praise from both coaches and teammates.

Her ability to stretch the floor will be a huge asset to the Fever. With the WNBA becoming more focused on three-point shooting, Cunningham’s perimeter game will give Indiana the space they need to operate offensively. She can play off the ball and make defenses pay if they sag off her.

 The Mid-Range Jumper: Smooth and Efficient

While Cunningham is best known for her long-range shooting, her mid-range game was on full display during the workout as well. Whether it was pulling up off the dribble or taking advantage of a well-timed screen, Cunningham’s ability to score from mid-range adds an extra layer of versatility to her offensive game.

One standout basket came when Cunningham used a quick crossover to free herself from her defender, pulling up for a silky jumper from the baseline. The smoothness of her shot was unmistakable, and it’s clear that she can be a threat in multiple areas of the floor.

Finishing at the Rim: Aggression and Toughness

Though Cunningham’s reputation is built around her perimeter shooting, she also showed an impressive ability to finish at the rim during her first workout. On a few occasions, she drove hard to the basket, using her quickness and body control to absorb contact and finish strong. One memorable basket came when Cunningham cut to the basket, received a pass, and finished through a defender’s contest, drawing the foul in the process.

Her ability to get to the rim and finish through traffic will make her even more dangerous, as defenders can’t simply play her for the three-pointer. She’s developed a well-rounded game, and it’s clear she can score in a variety of ways.

The Pull-Up Jumper: A Weapon in Transition

Another area where Cunningham excelled during her first workout was in transition. Known for her ability to push the pace, she demonstrated an impressive pull-up jumper in fast break situations. On one play, Cunningham received a long outlet pass, pushed the ball down the court, and pulled up from just beyond the free-throw line, draining a shot over a defender who was closing out on her.

Her ability to score in transition adds another dimension to the Fever’s offensive strategy, as Cunningham can fill the lanes, hit quick shots, or find an open teammate if defenses collapse on her.

What This Means for the Indiana Fever

Cunningham’s performance during her first workout is a positive sign for the Fever. Her scoring ability is undeniable, and with the team looking to build around a younger core, having a veteran scorer like Cunningham on the roster provides the perfect balance of leadership and skill.

Additionally, Cunningham’s versatility gives head coach Christie Sides plenty of options when drawing up plays. Whether it’s spacing the floor, handling the ball in transition, or getting a quick bucket in a half-court set, Cunningham can do it all. As the Fever continue to develop their young talent, Cunningham will serve as a mentor and a go-to scorer when the game is on the line.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future

Sophie Cunningham’s first workout with the Indiana Fever has left fans excited about what’s to come. Every basket she made—from her three-pointers to her mid-range shots and finishes at the rim—showed that she is ready to step up and make an immediate impact for her new team.

While it’s just one workout, it’s clear that Cunningham’s skills and leadership will be key factors in the Fever’s pursuit of success in the upcoming season. With her experience and offensive prowess, she’s a player that can carry the load when needed and provide a spark to help lift Indiana to new heights.

For Indiana Fever fans, the future just got a lot brighter. Sophie Cunningham is ready to make her mark, and after seeing her first workout, it’s safe to say that the best is yet to come.