Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham is used to making waves on the basketball court, but this week, she found herself at the center of a different kind of buzz, a viral social media moment that had WNBA fans and fellow players in stitches.
Known for her hustle, energy, and outspoken personality, Cunningham added another chapter to her public persona when she posted a playful selfie that blurred the line between athlete and influencer.
In the photo, Cunningham appears in a crisp white dress, radiating confidence. But it was her caption that set the internet alight.
“I’m tired of ppl telling me I don’t look like this when I wake up… I just rolled out of bed. Clearly…. dummies,” she wrote, poking fun at those who doubt her naturally polished appearance.
The tongue-in-cheek post quickly gained traction, racking up thousands of likes and a cascade of witty responses.
Fans rally behind Cunningham’s authenticity
Social media users wasted no time in joining the fun. Some fans joked that Cunningham‘s morning look was so impressive she could “have saved the Titanic,” while others commented, “We need to clone Sophie Cunningham.”
Many were eager to jump on the running gag, claiming they, too, looked “just like that” upon waking up.
One commenter who seemed to know Cunningham personally chimed in, “As someone who’s 100% been there when she wakes up in the morning and really really isn’t lying, I can confirm this is true.”
The lighthearted banter only added to Cunningham‘s reputation as one of the WNBA’s most relatable stars.
The post also triggered a broader conversation about beauty standards, public perception, and the pressures female athletes face both on and off the court.
Several users pointed out how much scrutiny WNBA players endure when it comes to appearance, with some arguing that Cunningham‘s ability to laugh at herself helps normalize the full range of women’s experiences in professional sports.
A fearless presence, on and off the court
Cunningham‘s viral moment comes at a time when her voice has never been louder in the league. Just days earlier, she went viral for a different reason, revealing on social media that she had been fined $500 by the WNBA for a TikTok video.
“I got fined $500 for this TikTok… idk why this is funny to me… like ok you got it bud! Cause there’s not more important things to be worried about with our league right now,” she posted.
The message racked up millions of views, underscoring her knack for drawing attention to larger issues while keeping the tone playful.
Beyond her social media savvy, Cunningham‘s commitment to her teammates, especially rising star Caitlin Clark, has not gone unnoticed.
Fans have praised her for defending Clark against on-court targeting and for her willingness to speak out on issues affecting the team.
“I think you just have to be yourself, no matter what people say,” Cunningham told reporters earlier this season.
“People are always going to have opinions, but at the end of the day, I’m here to play ball and be who I am.”
With the Indiana Fever fighting for a postseason berth, Cunningham‘s leadership and infectious energy remain invaluable.
Whether she’s going viral for a candid selfie or for standing up to league fines, Cunningham continues to resonate with fans, and reminds everyone that authenticity and humor are winning qualities, both in sports and in life.
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