Fever coach Stephanie White addresses Sophie Cunningham’s health issue

Stephanie White and the Indiana Fever suffered a 106-92 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks on Wednesday. The team welcomed Caitlin Clark back after missing two games, but Sophie Cunningham was limited to only 11 minutes of action.

The veteran guard was not on the bench to start the game. However, she joined them midway through the first quarter. She finished with two points, one rebound, one assist and one steal. Kelsey Mitchell led the way with 29 points built on five three-pointers, along with four rebounds and three assists. Lexie Hull backed her with 14 points.

Nneka Ogwumike, Rae Burrell and Dearica Hamby made big contributions for Los Angeles. The trio combined for 67 points, 20 rebounds and 11 assists.

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham against the Dallas Wings.

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White discusses Sophie Cunningham’s dehydration

During her pregame availability on Thursday, Cunningham revealed that she battled dehydration the previous night. The 29-year-old suspected that her recent illness played a role in her back issue.

White spoke to the media and addressed Cunningham’s condition.

“I think our nutritionist, our sports performance team does a really good job of making sure that our players have what they need and continuing to encourage them,” White said. “Whether it’s hydration, whether it’s eating, recovery, activation, prehab, rehab, all those things. And making sure that we’re giving the information that we need and that they’re giving the information that they need.

“So it’s very important. And I know sometimes as young people and young players, you take it for granted often. But at the same time, I think our players really understand and address it when they can.”

Indiana bounced back strong by defeating the Phoenix Mercury on Thursday 92-89. Mitchell once again top-scored with 29 points, and recorded eight assists. Cunningham logged 29 minutes and showed no signs of being hampered by any injury. She finished with nine points, two rebounds and two assists.