In a moment that has taken the internet by storm, WNBA star Sophie Cunningham of the Phoenix Mercury is once again trending — but this time, it has nothing to do with basketball. The 28-year-old guard set social media ablaze over the weekend after sharing a sultry, sun-soaked photo of herself on a boat, donning a bold thong bikini that left fans speechless and tongues wagging.

The now-viral image, which shows Cunningham confidently lounging at the edge of a sleek white boat, back turned to the camera and cheeks proudly on display, has generated over 1.2 million likes in less than 24 hours. “Hot girl summer unlocked,” one user wrote. Others were less poetic: “She’s breaking ankles off AND breaking the internet.”

The post came without a caption — just a sun emoji and a wink — but the message was crystal clear: Sophie Cunningham is embracing her confidence, her body, and her moment in the spotlight. And fans, both new and old, can’t seem to get enough.

Fans React: “Is This the New Face of the WNBA?”

Within hours, Twitter (now X) and Instagram were flooded with reactions. Some fans hailed the photo as empowering and refreshing. “It’s about time we stop pretending that athletes can’t be sexy and strong,” one tweet read. “Sophie is showing us how to own it.”

Others took a more stunned approach. “Never thought I’d be thirsting over a WNBA player,” one male commenter wrote, while another joked, “Sophie out here doing more for WNBA viewership than any marketing campaign.”

But the attention hasn’t come without controversy.

Critics Call It a Distraction – Sophie Claps Back?

While the majority of reactions have been positive, a few critics have surfaced, accusing Cunningham of “seeking attention” or “trying too hard to go viral.” Some even argued that such posts could detract from the professionalism and respect female athletes have long fought for in male-dominated sports.

However, Sophie Cunningham isn’t new to heat — and she’s not afraid to turn it up.

Though she hasn’t directly responded to the backlash, her recent Instagram Story featured a quote that felt all too timely:

“You can’t dim a light that knows it shines.”

Whether intentional or not, the message was clear: Sophie’s not here to play by anyone else’s rules — not off the court, at least.

A Pattern of Boldness

This isn’t the first time Sophie has stirred the pot. Known for her aggressive play, unapologetic attitude, and occasional spicy social media posts, she’s earned a reputation as one of the WNBA’s most fiery personalities. Just last season, she drew headlines after an on-court altercation with a rival guard that led to a league warning and a flurry of memes.

But this time, it’s not about trash talk or hustle plays — it’s about image, identity, and breaking molds.

“Sophie’s always been fearless,” said one WNBA analyst. “Whether she’s diving for a loose ball or posting something that makes people uncomfortable, she owns who she is. That’s what makes her magnetic — and polarizing.”

Is This Strategic Branding… Or Just Fun?

Some fans and insiders are wondering if this “cheeks out” moment is more calculated than carefree. With NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals booming and athletes increasingly blending sport with personal branding, could Cunningham be paving the way for future endorsements?

Marketing expert Danielle Reyes thinks so.

“Look at what’s happening across women’s sports — athletes are becoming influencers, lifestyle icons. Sophie’s image taps into something bold, edgy, and confident. It’s marketable. It’s fresh,” Reyes explains. “Whether or not she meant it to be, that photo is now a brand statement.”

Others think Sophie’s just living her life, no agenda attached. “She’s a young woman on a boat, having fun in the offseason,” one fan wrote. “Let her live!”

Teammates Chime In

The reaction from teammates has been playful and supportive. Fellow Mercury player Natasha Cloud reposted the photo with the caption: “Sis said it’s a full moon tonight 🌕.” Even Caitlin Clark, rookie star of the Indiana Fever, liked the photo and commented: “🔥🔥🔥 queen energy.”

It’s a rare moment of cross-team camaraderie that showcases the unity — and humanity — within the league’s rising stars.

What’s Next for Sophie?

With preseason just around the corner and the Mercury looking to rebuild, all eyes will be on Sophie Cunningham — both on and off the court. Some fans hope this boldness translates to her game, bringing a new level of intensity and confidence to the hardwood.

“She’s not just cheeks out,” one sports commentator tweeted. “She’s breakout.”

Whether this moment becomes a mere blip in her Instagram history or the start of a bolder public persona, one thing is certain: Sophie Cunningham isn’t fading into the background. She’s taking her shot — bikini, basketball, or both.

As one viral meme summed it up perfectly:

“From the three-point line to the shoreline — Sophie stays dangerous.” 🏀🍑🔥