As the WNBA season takes a brief hiatus for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham is channeling her energy into supporting her alma mater, the Missouri Tigers. The former star player for the Tigers recently delivered an enthusiastic message to students, alumni, and fans as they kicked off a new football season.
In a video shared by Mizzou Athletics, Cunningham expressed her excitement for the upcoming football season, stating, "Hey guys, Sophie Cunningham here. It is the start of a new football season. We are hyped, we are super excited. We’re about to kick some butt this year. So, come out, be loud and show your Mizzou pride. M-I-Z." This brief yet spirited message encapsulated her unwavering loyalty to the university where she made a significant impact on the basketball court.
Cunningham's roots run deep in Columbia, Missouri, where she grew up and later played for the Tigers from 2015 to 2019. During her collegiate career, she etched her name in the program's history as the all-time leading scorer, amassing a total of 2,187 points. Over her 129 games at Missouri, she averaged 17.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists, solidifying her status as one of the program's most accomplished athletes.
Her contributions to Missouri basketball were recognized when she became the first female player from the university to earn AP All-America honors. Additionally, she played a crucial role in leading the Tigers to four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2025, her legacy was further honored with an induction into the Missouri Athletics Hall of Fame.
Despite her professional commitments, Cunningham remains a passionate ambassador for Missouri athletics. Currently in her eighth season in the WNBA and her second with the Indiana Fever, she has maintained a strong connection with her college roots. This season, she has averaged 8.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting an impressive 46.9 percent from the field across 39 games.
The Fever entered the World Cup break with a solid record of 26-14, having secured their third consecutive playoff appearance. With four regular-season games remaining, Cunningham and her team are poised to make a significant impact as the season resumes.
Cunningham's encouragement for the Missouri Tigers was met with immediate success, as the No. 25 Tigers opened their football season with a resounding 54-14 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Quarterback Austin Simmons showcased his talent by completing 17 of 19 passes for 252 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Tigers to a commanding 40-0 halftime lead.
This victory not only marked the debut of Memorial Stadium’s renovated north end zone but also came before the 21st consecutive home sellout, illustrating the growing support for Missouri football. Looking ahead, the Tigers will face a tougher challenge on September 11 against their rival Kansas in the Border War. However, for the moment, Missouri fans responded to Cunningham's call to action, showing their pride and enthusiasm in a dominant season opener.
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