Sophie Cunningham has never been one to hold back her opinions, and this time she set the basketball world buzzing with a bold statement about her former teammate. Speaking on a popular podcast, she gave her take on what it would mean if Diana Taurasi, one of the game’s most celebrated icons, ever decided to suit up again. Her comments vividly depicted Taurasi’s lasting impact on the sport.
Why Did Sophie Cunningham Say Diana Taurasi Could Still Dominate the WNBA?
Now sidelined by an MCL injury, Cunningham was a guest on “The Young Man and The Three” podcast when the topic of her GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) came up. When asked if Taurasi can still play, Cunningham did not hesitate to confirm that the Phoenix Mercury legend, who retired in February 2025 at age 42, will still be a force on the court if she return.
“She can 1000% still play,” Cunningham said without missing a beat. “When she’s on, she’s on. She is still so damn good. I think that’s what’s hard for her, cause she knows she could still be out here. S**t what if she came out of retirement?”
Her words painted Taurasi as more than a former star. Cunningham, who spent six seasons alongside her in Phoenix, explained what the 43-year-old could bring if she hypothetically joined the Fever.
“Showing these younger bucks what it takes to win a championship, what it takes to become the GOAT. I have heard things and seen things that she does that I’m just like, wow. And I don’t get starstruck.”
The picture she drew was of mentorship and setting standards. For Cunningham, Taurasi’s presence would raise the bar for the entire roster.
Taurasi’s resume speaks for itself. She retired as a three-time WNBA champion, an 11-time All-Star, a league MVP, and had 14 All-WNBA selections. Her legacy also places her among an elite group of just 11 women who have claimed an Olympic gold medal, a WNBA championship, an NCAA title and a FIBA World Cup trophy.
The Mercury legend, drafted No. 1 overall in 2004, became the face of Phoenix basketball for two decades. Her competitiveness earned her the nickname “White Mamba,” gifted by Kobe Bryant himself, and that edge is what Cunningham admires most.
Cunningham reflected on their bond during the same interview. “Her energy and her aura is just so strong and intense, but I’ve gotten to know her for the past seven years. We are good friends now. She’s so intense, but I think she does that because she has one of the biggest hearts and feels everything,” Cunningham said.
That friendship traces back to 2019, when Phoenix drafted Cunningham ahead of Taurasi’s 15th season. Over time, Cunningham not only learned from Taurasi’s relentless drive but also built a close personal connection that has shaped her own career.
What Is Cunningham’s New Role With the Fever?
Now in Indiana, Cunningham has shifted gears after her season was cut short by an MCL injury. Instead of leading on the court, she has embraced a different responsibility. Alongside fellow injured players Caitlin Clark, Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson, she has been a steady voice from the bench.
Her contributions go beyond clapping and cheers. Cunningham has become a motivator, constantly reminding teammates of their assignments and boosting their confidence during tense stretches. For head coach Stephanie White, whose system emphasizes resilience and accountability, Cunningham’s leadership has been invaluable.
Although the Fever lost Game 2 of the WNBA semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces 68-90, it’s perhaps the grit and perseverance of the Fever’s entire roster, injured included like Cunningham that has kept them in the contention.
