The Indiana Fever are coming off a big win over the weekend against the Connecticut Sun, rallying back from a 21-point deficit to force overtime and ultimately secure the victory, improving to 19-16 on the season.
However, in the heat of that game, Fever star Sophie Cunningham—who is in her first year with the franchise—suffered a knee injury after a questionable play involving Sun guard Bria Hartley. Hartley drove baseline and attempted a pass but ultimately stumbled into Cunningham’s knee, sending her to the floor in visible pain and forcing her to exit for the remainder of the game.
While Indiana isn’t back in action until Friday, some devastating news broke on Tuesday when the Fever announced that Sophie Cunningham has been ruled out for the season with a torn MCL. She now becomes the third player on the roster to suffer a season-ending injury, joining Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald.
“Sophie Cunningham will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an injury during our game at Connecticut on Sunday,” Fever posted.
While right after the play occurred, Bria Hartley was met with some intense backlash in her direction, she came under fire even more after the season-ending news was announced on Tuesday from WNBA fans who believe her play, while common, was dirty with some of her past instances in the league.
Get well soon Sophie, we will miss you greatly. I disgusted that they don’t punishBria Hartley for this foul. Cant wait to see you next season with CC again!” A fan said.
