Before the Phoenix Mercury secured their playoff spot on Tuesday night, forward Sophie Cunningham made waves not just on the court, but also with a bold fashion statement. Cunningham, known for her eye-catching pregame outfits, pulled up to the arena in a tribute to basketball legend Kobe Bryant, rocking an oversized sweater that turned heads.
At 28, Cunningham has become a fixture in the WNBA for her spirited play and unique sense of style. Her latest look, a striking Kobe Bryant sweater, was a homage to one of her basketball idols. The front of the sweater featured an iconic image of Bryant donning the No. 8 jersey during his early years with the Los Angeles Lakers, while the back showcased another powerful image of the “Black Mamba.”
What made the outfit stand out even more was Cunningham’s decision to skip the typical pregame attire. The oversized nature of the sweater meant she didn’t need to pair it with any pants, confidently striding into the arena with just the Kobe sweater and a pair of shades. The look was as bold as it was simple, with Cunningham effortlessly making a statement before even stepping onto the court.
Cunningham’s fashion choice quickly drew praise from WNBA fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. “Best dressed on the team, omg,” one fan commented, while another chimed in with, “Just when you thought you couldn’t love Sophie any more, she brings out the Mamba.” Her tribute to Kobe not only resonated with basketball fans but also showcased her deep connection to the sport’s history.
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While her fashion sense stole the pregame spotlight, Cunningham also made her presence felt during the Mercury’s game. She contributed seven points, six rebounds, and two steals, helping Phoenix in their push toward the playoffs. The Mercury, powered by a team effort, managed to secure a much-needed win, with Cunningham playing a key role both offensively and defensively.
This season, Cunningham has been a solid contributor for the Mercury, averaging 8.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Known for her sharpshooting, she’s been hitting 37.2 percent of her three-point attempts, providing the team with consistent perimeter scoring. As the Mercury gear up for the playoffs, they’ll rely on Cunningham’s versatility and tenacity on the court.
Her tribute to Kobe Bryant was not only a nod to one of the greatest players in basketball history but also a reminder of the profound impact Bryant continues to have on players in the WNBA. Cunningham’s respect for the “Mamba Mentality” is evident both in how she plays and how she presents herself—confident, fearless, and always ready for the moment.
As the Mercury head into the postseason, Cunningham will look to carry both her fashion sense and her on-court impact into the high-stakes environment of playoff basketball.
With her blend of style, swagger, and skill, Sophie Cunningham is not only making her mark in the WNBA but also continuing to build her reputation as a player who embraces the game’s culture, both on and off the court.
