Investing in talent: How the Sophie Cunningham Classic combined hoops with financial literacy.

The competition is named for Sophie Cunningham, who was an All-American at the University of Missouri and currently plays for the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. A native of Columbia, she helped create the Classic as a way of giving girls’ high school basketball players in the Midwest an opportunity to play high-level competition — and showcase their talents for college coaches — without needing to travel to the East or West Coast.

“There’s so much great talent here in the Midwest,” Cunningham says. “My sister [Lindsey, who also played at Mizzou] and I spent our whole lives traveling to the coasts for competitions, and I thought, why not do that here? The Classic creates a platform to bring college coaches to us and keep talented players closer to home.”

For Cunningham, the special nature of the Classic goes beyond the on-court action. She believes it’s just as important to celebrate the athletes themselves and use the event as an opportunity to prepare them for life in and out of sports. That’s why Commerce, as part of its sponsorship of the Classic, provided each player with financial education materials. The information touched on a variety of topics relevant for high school students, such as tips to help plan for the costs of college, a guide to understanding the basics of credit, and staying safe from AI-powered fraud.

Cunningham was excited to have Commerce support the student-athletes in this way. “I think financial education is hugely important for everyone, and particularly for young people who are just starting out,” she says. “It helps you maintain the right balance so you can still live the life you want to live today while also thinking big picture and building for your future. I’m glad Commerce sees the potential in these female athletes and wants to help lift them up. Having the participation of a company like that is super special to me.”

Financial education can also help people meet life’s unforeseen challenges — and Cunningham encourages young people to embrace such challenges, whether they happen on-court or off. “They’re a part of life, and they help you learn about yourself,” she says. “Overcoming challenges helps you build your character, and it teaches you to work hard. That’s why I have a growth mindset and a positive mindset when it comes to trials and adversity. You need them in order to prosper in the long run.”

Through its sponsorship of the Sophie Cunningham Classic, Commerce Bank is not just supporting athletic excellence but also investing in the futures of these young athletes. By combining high-level basketball competition with the practical knowledge of financial literacy, the event provides a unique opportunity for players to grow both on and off the court.

Cunningham sees this dual focus as a reflection of what it takes to succeed in life. “Financial education is a key tool for success,” she says. “Whether you’re saving for college, your first car, or a long-term dream, understanding how to manage money gives you confidence and independence. Basketball prepares you for success as well — it has taught me so many lessons about discipline, teamwork and perseverance.”

For the student-athletes who participated in the Classic, the weekend was about more than just basketball. It was a chance to learn, grow and connect with resources that could shape their futures. And for Commerce, the event was an opportunity to serve the next generation — not just as athletes, but as individuals with the potential to achieve their dreams.