In the world of professional basketball, success isn’t just measured by points scored or championships won—it’s also about the impact you make off the court. For Sophie Cunningham, veteran guard of the Indiana Fever, her legacy is being shaped not only by her performances on the hardwood but by her role as a mentor to the next generation of basketball talent.

Cunningham’s journey through the WNBA has seen her evolve from a rising star to a respected veteran, and she’s fully embraced the responsibility of guiding young players as they navigate their own paths in the league. But what makes her so passionate about mentoring? In a recent interview, Cunningham shared why she enjoys mentoring the next wave of basketball stars, and how this role has enriched her experience as a professional athlete.

The Fulfillment of Passing on Knowledge

For Cunningham, mentoring young players isn’t just about teaching basketball—it’s about passing on the lessons she’s learned throughout her career. “I remember when I was the young one coming into the league, trying to figure things out. There were veterans who helped me, and I’m grateful for them every day,” Cunningham explained. “Now, it’s my turn to do the same for the next generation.”

The idea of paying it forward is something Cunningham holds dear. She recognizes the profound influence experienced players can have on the younger generation—not just in terms of basketball skills, but also in helping them understand the mental and emotional aspects of being a professional athlete. “There’s a lot more to it than just basketball. It’s how you take care of your body, how you manage the pressures of the job, and how you handle success and failure,” she says. For Cunningham, mentoring allows her to help players navigate all these challenges, making their transition into the league smoother and more successful.

Building Confidence and Trust

One of the most important aspects of Cunningham’s mentoring approach is instilling confidence in her younger teammates. “As a young player, it can be intimidating to come into a league full of experienced, talented athletes. I remember feeling like I had to prove myself right away,” Cunningham said. “But what I’ve learned is that confidence comes from within, and it helps when you have people around you who believe in you.”

Cunningham’s mentorship is rooted in creating a supportive environment where young players feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes, and growing into their roles. “I love seeing that ‘aha’ moment when a young player starts believing in themselves. It’s like the switch flips, and they realize they belong here,” Cunningham says. Helping players build that confidence is one of the most rewarding aspects of her mentorship.

Cunningham’s willingness to guide players in their personal growth has also fostered a deep sense of trust with her teammates. Her approachability and openness create an atmosphere where young players feel heard and respected. “The more trust we have between teammates, the better we play together on the court,” Cunningham explains. “It’s about building relationships that go beyond just basketball.”

The Challenge of Leadership

As one of the more experienced players on the Indiana Fever, Cunningham’s leadership role extends beyond mentorship—she’s also tasked with helping to create a culture of accountability and professionalism within the team. “It’s not always easy to step up as a leader, especially when you’re still working on your own game,” Cunningham admits. “But part of mentoring is leading by example, both on and off the court.”

Cunningham knows that being a leader means showing up every day with a work ethic and attitude that sets the tone for the rest of the team. “If you’re telling someone else to push harder or do better, you’ve got to be doing the same yourself,” she says. “You can’t expect your teammates to follow if you’re not setting the right example.”

In addition to her leadership on the court, Cunningham takes on the role of helping the younger players deal with the mental and emotional toll that comes with being a professional athlete. “The ups and downs of a season can be hard to handle. I’ve learned how to manage the pressure over the years, and I want to pass that knowledge on to the younger players,” she explains. “It’s about helping them stay focused, not just on their performance, but on taking care of their mental health, too.”

The Joy of Watching Players Grow

For Cunningham, one of the most fulfilling aspects of mentoring is seeing the growth of players over time. “There’s nothing like watching a player you’ve mentored make a big play in a game or take on a leadership role themselves,” she says. “It’s amazing to see them evolve from nervous rookies to confident, capable athletes.”

Cunningham takes great pride in the success of her teammates, and the joy she gets from seeing them flourish is evident. “When a young player starts hitting their stride, it feels like a win for the whole team,” she explains. “It’s about being there for them when they need advice, celebrating their successes, and helping them through the tough moments.”

This sense of satisfaction isn’t limited to the basketball court. Cunningham’s investment in her teammates’ personal development—helping them navigate the challenges of being a professional athlete and balancing life off the court—adds another layer to her mentoring approach. “It’s not just about the game. It’s about helping them grow as people, too,” she says.

Mentorship Beyond Basketball

Cunningham’s passion for mentoring extends beyond just basketball skills and court dynamics. She sees mentorship as a way to help young players shape their futures, both professionally and personally. “Basketball can be a short career. You’ve got to think about what’s next. I always talk to the younger players about preparing for life after the game,” she says.

From financial literacy to building a personal brand, Cunningham encourages her younger teammates to make the most of their time in the league by thinking ahead and setting themselves up for long-term success. “I want to make sure they’re ready for whatever comes after basketball,” she explains. “Whether they stay in the sports industry, go into business, or take on another career, I want them to feel confident in their ability to succeed.”

By fostering an environment of growth, both on and off the court, Cunningham is helping to ensure that the next generation of players has the tools they need to succeed—whether it’s a championship ring or a future beyond basketball.

A Legacy of Mentorship

As Cunningham continues her career in the WNBA, her legacy will undoubtedly include the countless young players she has mentored and inspired along the way. “It’s an honor to be in a position where I can make a difference in someone else’s life,” she says. “Basketball has given me so much, and I’m grateful to be able to give something back.”

Her commitment to mentoring has become an integral part of her identity as a player, and it’s clear that this role will continue to shape her legacy long after her playing days are over. For Cunningham, mentoring is more than just a responsibility—it’s a passion that brings meaning to her career and to the lives of those she helps.

In the end, Sophie Cunningham’s love for mentoring is a reflection of her own journey. She knows how hard it can be to break into the league and how valuable the guidance of others can be. By sharing her experiences, offering her wisdom, and supporting the next generation of players, Cunningham is ensuring that her impact will be felt for years to come—both in the game of basketball and beyond.