Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham Forge Unlikely WNBA Bench Duo

According to an interview with Sports Illustrated, Cunningham highlighted Clark’s fiery competitiveness. This insight came during an offseason event promoting Sun Cruiser. Their time together offered a unique view of the team’s strategy and camaraderie.

Injury-Plagued Season Forges Stronger Team Bond

Both players missed significant time last season. Cunningham suffered a torn right MCL in August. Clark dealt with a series of injuries including a groin issue and a quad strain.

Their shared rehab process brought them closer. On the bench, they were a vocal and strategic presence. Cunningham joked they even got into occasional trouble with game officials for their enthusiasm.

This dynamic provided unexpected value for the Fever. The duo analyzed games and supported teammates from the sidelines. Their partnership showed that leadership can come from off the court as much as on it.

Free Agency Looms for Key Fever Contributor

Cunningham now enters the offseason as an unrestricted free agent. Her future, like many WNBA players, awaits a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. She was acquired by Indiana via a four-team trade before the 2025 season.

Despite the uncertainty, her belief in the Fever’s potential is clear. When asked what a healthy Indiana squad could achieve, her answer was direct. She stated simply that the team could win a championship.

This confidence underscores the positive culture being built. The connection between stars like Clark and key rotational players like Cunningham is vital. It suggests a strong foundation for the Fever’s future campaigns.

The evolving friendship between Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham proves that team chemistry often forms in unexpected ways. Their bench alliance became a genuine asset for the Indiana Fever during a challenging playoff push.

Thought you’d like to know

How did Sophie Cunningham and Caitlin Clark get along?

Cunningham says they formed a quick and strong connection. She describes Clark as thinking about the game at an “elite level.” Their bench interactions involved both strategy talk and enthusiastic cheering.

What injuries did the Fever players have?

Sophie Cunningham’s season ended due to a torn MCL in her right knee. Caitlin Clark managed multiple ailments, including a groin injury and a quad strain, which limited her playing time.

Is Sophie Cunningham returning to the Fever?

Cunningham is currently an unrestricted free agent. Her return depends on the new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement and subsequent contract negotiations with Indiana or other teams.

What did Cunningham say about Clark’s personality?

She said fans might mistake her as the feistier player, but clarified “absolutely not.” Cunningham called Clark “a piece,” highlighting her competitive and savvy nature on and off the court.

What was the Fever’s 2025 playoff result?

The Indiana Fever reached the WNBA semifinals in the 2025 season. Their run ended there, but the experience with a roster navigating significant injuries was seen as formative.