Sophie Cunningham is the newest addition to the Indiana Fever, and she’s excited about what the future could bring. The former Phoenix Mercury guard joined the Fever as part of a four-team trade involving the Mercury, Fever, Dallas Wings, and the Connecticut Sun.
Cunningham, who averaged 8.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season, looks to make an impact with the Fever this year. Her scoring dipped slightly last year, but with the Fever, she appears ready for a fresh start.
Sophie Cunningham Wants To Help Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark is arguably the biggest name in the WNBA today. Her popularity has soared alongside the league’s growth. With Clark in such a high-profile position, having a veteran teammate like Cunningham could be a huge boost for her.
Just hours after arriving at the Fever’s facility, Cunningham spoke for the first time and made it clear she wants to be there for her new teammate, joking that she could be the Sabrina Carpenter to Clark’s Taylor Swift. She then praised Clark’s impact on the game.
“She has changed our game in the best possible way and every way, so just to be alongside of her and maybe relieve the pressure being able to shoot and spread the court for her to go do her thing.
“Diana (Taurasi) took me under her wing, and I learned a lot from her. Now, I hope to do the same for Caitlin if she wants it. I just think that the relationship piece is huge. When you’re trying to do something great, it takes everybody.
“I want her to go do her thing and anything she needs from me, I’m going to be here. I think just the competitor that I am — I’m fierce, I’m sassy, I stick up for my teammates… she’s drawn a lot of people, not only to Indiana but to the women’s game as a whole.”
Entering her second season in the WNBA, Clark could benefit from having a strong bond with an experienced teammate. With Cunningham now in her corner, will Clark step into MVP conversations this season?
How Far Can the Fever Go?
The Fever found success in Clark’s rookie season, making the playoffs before a quick exit against the Sun. Now, with new teammates, more experience, and a stronger, more seasoned Clark, the Fever are eyeing the top spot in the WNBA.
Will Cunningham provide the spark to help push them to new heights? Should Clark be considered a frontrunner for MVP this year? The field is always competitive, but a focused Clark and Indiana team will be a tough challenge for any opponent.
