WNBA’s Bria Hartley Responds to Accusations of Deliberately Injuring Sophie Cunningham: A TOI Report

Indiana Fever star, Sophie Cunningham, has put to rest rumours that WNBA pro, Bria Hartley intentionally caused her season-ending knee injury. Contrary to online speculations fuelled by a picture showing Hartely smiling after the alleged incident, Cunningham stated that Hartley would not intentionally try to hurt her.

Cunningham remarks were made during Tuesday’s episode of her ‘Show Me Something’ podcast. She explained that she was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, describing the incident as a basketball play. She also added that she and Hartley are actually good friends.

The Indiana Fever star suffered an MCL tear in her knee during a game against the Connecticut Sun on August 17. Hartley fell and collided with Cunningham’s right knee during a play in the game, leading to the injury. However, the injury severity wasn’t diagnosed until Tuesday and subsequent confirmation that she will not return for the rest of the game.

Cunningham’s coach, Stephanie White, commented on the fall after the game, describing the significant pain the player was in. More details about the incident or her current condition have not been disclosed.