Sophie Cunningham’s Indiana Fever contract explained amid ‘release’ rumours circulating online

Sophie Cunningham has become one of the most high-profile names in the WNBA since her comments about protecting young girls from competing against biological males emerged last month.

Some people have thrown their support behind the Indiana Fever star, including using her face and image during rallies at WNBA games.

But there are others who have spoken out against Cunningham as the debate around transgender athletes competing in the league continues.

For example, some WNBA fans blamed Sophie for the Enes Kanter and Natasha Cloud incident at a recent Fever game.

But regardless of what you think about Cunningham's views, she has gained a lot of attention in the last month or so, and with the newfound notoriety has come more rumours.

In recent days, a number of accounts on X/Twitter have aggregated that she is going to be 'released' by the Fever after the 2026 season is over, citing 'WNBA sources' when doing so.

Sophie Cunningham set to become unrestricted free agent after one-year Fever deal

Amid talk of a release, we have taken a look at Sophie's current contract situation.

Back in April 2026, the Fever agreed a one-year deal with Sophie, which Spotrac says is worth $665,000.

Then, in 2027, when Cunningham's contract with her current team is up, she is listed as a 'UFA' (unrestricted free agent) on their site.

So, at present, Sophie is on course to leave the Fever after this year and become a free agent.

When she becomes an unrestricted free agent, as per the WNBA, 'A UFA is a player who can negotiate with any team during the free agency period without hindrance.'

Whether or not the Fever decide to negotiate a new deal with Cunningham beyond this year remains to be seen, of course, while a number of fans on social media have responded to suggestions she is going to be released.

One stated: "You can't be released when you're a free agent she's only on a one-year contract so she'll be a free agent. Now, whether they choose to re-sign her or not, that's different."

Another commented: "She's a free agent she can't be released by any team."

And a third echoed : "She is an UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENT at the end of the year. She has the rights to sign with whatever team she chooses to. 100% different than Sophie being released."