Caitlin Clark Leaves No Doubt on Her Opinion of Sophie Cunningham

David Butler II, Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Caitlin Clark Leaves No Doubt on Her Opinion of Sophie Cunningham

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 25, 2026 9:35 PM ET

Caitlin Clark was back on the court for the Indiana Fever on Saturday night against the New York Liberty. The two-time All-Star played in her first game for the Fever since July 15. Clark was limited to just 13 games last season due to multiple injuries.

Clark battled some rust in her return, though. She shot just 2-of-10 overall and 1-of-5 from three-point territory in Indiana’s first preseason game. Clark finished with seven points, three rebounds, four assists, a block and zero turnovers in 17 minutes of action.

Sophie Cunningham also returned from injury on Saturday. She, too, suffered a season-ending injury in 2025 and has since been working hard to return to the court. Cunningham got the start on Saturday, registering 13 points, two rebounds, an assist, two steals and three triples in just 14 minutes of play.

The Fever cruised to victory, 109-91.

Indiana Fever guards Caitlin Clark (22) and Sophie Cunningham (8).Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Clark spoke to the press after Indiana’s lopsided road win. One of the questions she faced was about Cunningham, who recently signed a one-year contract with the Fever in WNBA free agency.

Clark made her opinion of Cunningham abundantly clear.

“I think the thing I appreciate about Sophie more than anything is that she's never intimidated by the moment,” Clark said. “She rises to the occasion every single time. She’s going to have her teammates’ backs. And when our backs are against the wall, she’s one of the loudest voices out there, fighting and scrapping.

“No matter the situation—whether we're down 20 or up 20—it’s the same Sophie. Every team in this league would probably love to have a player like that. I’m really fortunate she’s on our side.”

Clark and Cunningham have also built a friendship off the court during their one year together as teammates. Clark had nothing but good things to say about Cunningham’s attitude both on and off the court.

“Sophie’s also just a really cool person—a good soul,” Clark continued. “But when she steps on the floor, she’s fierce, fiery, and will do anything to help our team win. That’s what I really appreciate about her.”

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There was some doubt surrounding Cunningham’s future with the Fever as she entered unrestricted free agency. The 29-year-old ultimately decided to stay — a development that Clark is clearly delighted about.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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