Two stars from the WNBA's 2019 draft class, Sophie Cunningham and Napheesa Collier, have carved distinct paths to success both on and off the basketball court. While their professional journeys began in the same year, their financial standings and brand ventures reveal an intriguing contrast. This analysis delves into their net worth, career earnings from the WNBA, and lucrative off-court endorsements.
From Missouri Rivals to WNBA Professionals
The rivalry and mutual respect between Sophie Cunningham and Napheesa Collier predate their professional careers. They first faced each other during their high school days in the state of Missouri. Entering the WNBA in 2019, their draft positions set the stage: Napheesa Collier was selected as the 6th overall pick by the Minnesota Lynx, while Sophie Cunningham was taken as the 13th overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury. Collier immediately made her mark by winning the prestigious Rookie of the Year award that season.
Sophie Cunningham's Financial Game: Net Worth and Brand Power
According to estimates from Celebrity Net Worth, Sophie Cunningham's net worth is approximately $2 million. Her journey in the league saw a move from the Phoenix Mercury to the Indiana Fever. To date, her total career earnings from WNBA salaries amount to $637,780. For the 2025 season, she is set to earn a salary of $100,000 with the Fever, following a contract extension worth $304,500 signed for the 2023-2024 period.
Her marketability has surged significantly, especially after joining the Fever, where fans have dubbed her "the Enforcer." Cunningham's endorsement portfolio is robust, featuring deals with major brands like Adidas, Arby's, and Ring. Recently, she announced a partnership with Sun-Cruiser and secured a podcast deal with The Volume. She co-hosts "Show Me Something" with West Wilson of Bravo's Summer House, expanding her reach beyond the court.
Napheesa Collier's Empire: On-Court Earnings and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Napheesa Collier's estimated net worth is around $1.5 million. Her financial foundation is built on her WNBA contracts, from which she has earned a total of $647,763. She began her career with the Minnesota Lynx on a salary of $55,059 and later secured her future with a substantial $552,516 three-year contract extension with the team.
Beyond her salary, Collier boasts an impressive array of endorsements. Her most notable partnership is a multi-year deal with the iconic Jordan Brand. She also has collaborations with Care.com, Deloitte, and Dyson. Demonstrating remarkable entrepreneurial drive, Collier owns and operates her own basketball league, Unrivalled, which she runs alongside her husband, Alex Bazzell.
The Final Score: Who Leads in the Financial Showdown?
Based on the available net worth figures, Sophie Cunningham edges out Napheesa Collier with an estimated $2 million against Collier's $1.5 million. Cunningham also enjoys significant digital popularity, ranking as one of the most Googled WNBA athletes globally. Both athletes exemplify the modern sports professional, successfully leveraging their on-court talent into substantial off-court business and endorsement opportunities. Their stories highlight the growing financial avenues and brand-building potential for women in professional sports.
