Undoubtedly one of the most significant events in the WNBA this past weekend was the incident involving Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham and Connecticut Sun’s Bria Hartley — a collision that resulted in a serious injury to Caitlin Clark’s key teammate.
The outrage over the incident extended beyond Stephanie White’s team and struck a nerve within Cunningham’s inner circle. Both her sister and her mother spoke out passionately about what happened.
In an era where social media serves as an endless source of statements, expressions, and even accusations, it was Paula Cunningham, Sophie’s mother, who spoke out strongly about the incident — a tweet that was later deleted from the platform.
“Hartley is a disgruntled player having trouble everywhere she goes; she’s plain mean and plays out of control,” she said via @P2Cham.
Sophie Cunningham #8 of the Indiana Fever loses the ball on a move to the basket against the Connecticut Sun in the first half at Mohegan Sun Arena on August 17, 2025 in Uncasville, Connecticut.
What happened between Cunningham and Hartley?
In a concerning incident that has sparked a firestorm of debate, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham suffered a significant knee injury during Sunday’s game against the Connecticut Sun.
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The injury occurred in the second quarter when Sun guard Bria Hartley, driving to the basket, fell and landed awkwardly on Cunningham‘s right knee. She immediately collapsed in visible pain and had to be helped off the court.
While the Fever await results from an MRI to determine the severity of the injury, the play has ignited online outrage, with many fans and even Cunningham’s family members taking to social media to criticize Hartley’s history of aggressive play and question the WNBA’s officiating standards.
The injury is a major blow to the already shorthanded Fever, who are fighting for a playoff spot without several key players, including star Caitlin Clark.
