Sophie Cunningham. Image via: Getty ImagesSophie Cunningham has become one of the most talked-about players in the WNBA this season, thanks to her growing popularity beyond the basketball court. The Indiana Fever guard has embraced the spotlight after her finger-pointing exchange with DeWanna Bonner went viral and later recreated the gesture alongside UFC star Max Holloway during UFC 329 in Las Vegas.While Cunningham’s personality and social media presence have attracted plenty of attention, former WNBA star Angel McCoughtry believes there should be a balance between building a personal brand and maintaining strong performances on the court. The five-time WNBA All-Star shared her thoughts during a recent episode of the Just Women’s Sports podcast.Angel McCoughtry urges Sophie Cunningham to keep basketball her top priorityAngel McCoughtry praised Sophie Cunningham for making the most of her popularity and said there was nothing wrong with using viral moments to increase her profile. However, she stressed that basketball should always remain the main focus.According to McCoughtry, players should continue promoting themselves and take advantage of marketing opportunities that come their way. At the same time, she said it is equally important to make sure those off-court activities do not affect performances. She explained that while she enjoys seeing WNBA players gain attention outside basketball, she wants Cunningham’s numbers on the court to remain strong and continue improving.Cunningham has played an important role for the Indiana Fever this season. The 29-year-old is averaging 9.6 points per game and has provided valuable energy on both ends of the floor as the team continues its push in the standings. Her recent headlines, however, have mostly come from moments away from live game action.The finger-pointing celebration first grabbed attention after Indiana’s July 9 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Cunningham later repeated the gesture during her appearance at UFC 329, where she posed with former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway. The recreation quickly spread across social media, adding another viral moment to her growing public profile.McCoughtry believes such attention is positive as long as it does not distract players from their responsibilities. She said athletes are free to enjoy opportunities outside basketball, provided their commitment to winning and helping the team remains unchanged. In her view, off-court fame becomes a problem only if it starts affecting focus, preparation or overall performance.Cunningham has previously explained why she actively embraces her growing popularity. Speaking on the Sons and Daughters podcast, she said she enjoys making the most of the opportunities that come with being a professional athlete. She added that she understands the value of using her platform to create long-term opportunities beyond her playing career rather than simply enjoying the attention in the moment.The Fever guard also pointed to the financial reality faced by many WNBA players. She explained that even with improvements expected under the league’s collective bargaining agreement, player salaries are still not enough for many athletes to comfortably retire without building additional sources of income.