Fever's Sophie Cunningham Out for Season, Fined Third Time for WNBA Officiating Criticism

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has been fined three times by the WNBA during the 2025 season, primarily for publicly criticizing officiating. Her latest fine followed comments made on her "Show Me Something" podcast, where she expressed frustration over referees allegedly favoring Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers by calling fouls inconsistently. Cunningham, who is sidelined for the rest of the season due to an MCL tear, has taken the fines in stride and continues to speak openly about officiating issues. Earlier fines included a $500 penalty for a TikTok video mocking referees and a $1,500 fine for comments made on the podcast's debut episode. Cunningham's outspoken stance reflects wider concerns among WNBA players and coaches about officiating standards this season. Despite the fines, she remains a prominent voice in the league, leveraging her growing media presence to discuss these topics.