Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham’s stunning WNBA season now has an abrupt ending after she got a sudden, unexpected knee injury. In the basketball match against the Connecticut Sun on August 17, Sophie suffered an MCL tear when Bria Hartley accidentally fell on her knee during play.
This led to Indiana Fever fans showering anger and backlash on Bria, alleging her actions to be intentional. However, seeing the hatred, the Fever star decides to clarify the events, saying, “She would never try to hurt me.”
Fever Star Sophie Cunningham Defends Hartley Amid Fan Backlash
According to a Hindustan Times report on Aug 22, 2025, Sophie Cunningham took to her Show Me Something podcast on August 19 to address the growing criticism Bria Hartley has been facing from fans. The backlash began after a heated game incident left Sophie injured, sparking debate over whether Hartley’s actions were intentional.
Speaking openly and with conviction, Sophie shared her perspective, “I know Bria, and I’m actually really good friends with Bria… I don’t think that there was any ill intent… I think it was a basketball play, I was just in the front spot at the wrong time, she fell…”
Following the fall, Sophie was immediately taken for medical attention, while Bria stayed in the game, continuing to play. This sequence of events fueled speculation among fans, with many questioning if Hartley’s move was accidental or done on purpose.
Sophie’s statement, however, aimed to clear the air, emphasizing her belief that it was purely a basketball moment gone wrong rather than any malicious intent.
Her Injury, Surgery, and Expected Recovery Time
Cunningham’s injury occurred immediately after she passed the ball, as Harley fell on her right knee almost immediately. Now the Indiana Fever star will have to undergo knee surgery due to a torn MCL.
The surgery will take place today, on August 22. The estimated post-surgery recovery time is four months. However, the Indiana star is thankful for not having a worse injury, as she says, “If you’re gonna hurt your knee, that is the best possible case.”
Being in her best form with an average of 8.6 points and 46.9% shots from the field, Sophie Cunningham’s injury is a major setback for the Indiana Fever. However, her team is hopeful for her quick recovery and a bashing comeback.
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