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Caitlin Clark Makes Request to Sophie Cunningham Amid Free Agency

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jan 16, 2026 9:15 AM ET

Sophie Cunningham joined the Indiana Fever in February 2025 in a four-team trade, bringing veteran toughness to the backcourt in the hopes of pairing with WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark.

Cunningham’s arrival was met with excitement. She was expected to be a complementary scorer and defensive presence beside Clark, whose playmaking had already transformed the Fever’s profile.

Their first season together, however, was hampered by injuries that prevented fans from seeing their full potential as a duo. Clark battled multiple ailments throughout the year, including a left quadriceps strain and a right groin injury that ultimately sidelined her for the final stretch of the 2025 season, limiting her to just 13 games. Meanwhile, Cunningham played in 30 games, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1 steal per game, before a right knee MCL tear ended her season prematurely.

Indiana Fever guards Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham (8).© Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Because of these setbacks, the Fever rarely had their top backcourt tandem on the floor together for extended stretches.

Now Cunningham is a free agent in the 2026 offseason. Her one-year contract with Indiana has expired, and she is reportedly in talks with the Fever about a potential new deal, though nothing has been finalized. Fans also continue to speculate about whether Cunningham will return to Indiana to rejoin Clark and the core that enjoyed playoff success despite the injuries, advancing to the WNBA semifinals before falling to the eventual champion Las Vegas Aces.

Amid the ongoing free agency buzz, Clark made a lighthearted plea to Cunningham on social media.

Under one of Cunningham’s TikTok posts, Clark wrote, “Time to run it back.”

Cunningham gave a playful response not long after: “Only if you cuddle and make me dinner twice a week.”

On the court, Cunningham’s shooting efficiency and energy around the perimeter offered spacing and defense that ideally would have freed up more opportunities for Clark when both were healthy. Though their time playing together was limited, when both were available in games, the Fever’s lineup looked more balanced and dynamic.

Off the court, the two have developed a strong friendship and chemistry that resonates with teammates and fans. That bond was on display last November at The Annika LPGA Pro-Am tournament, where Cunningham supported Clark by serving as her caddie in the event.

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

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