Indiana Fever Star Sophie Cunningham Has Strong Words on Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Sep 3, 2025 8:00 AM ET

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese have quickly become two of the WNBA’s most recognizable stars since joining the league last season. Both have found success on and off the court, setting records and drawing unprecedented attention to the league. Since their arrival, the WNBA has seen major jumps in viewership, attendance and merchandise sales.

While much of the spotlight has been on Clark’s impact on the WNBA, Reese’s contributions can't be overlooked either. And Clark’s teammate Sophie Cunningham has made sure they haven’t been.

Cunningham has seen firsthand what it’s like to play with Clark, who draws sold-out crowds almost every game, even when she doesn’t play.

On Tuesday's addition of her podcast, "Show Me Something," Cunningham and Bravo's West Wilson discussed the impact Clark has had on the WNBA. Cunningham did not forget to mention Reese's effect as well.

"I'm just being real and truthful that (Clark) has brought millions, millions," Cunningham said. "I wouldn't be surprised if it's billions of eyes onto the W and onto women's sports. She is a Kobe Bryant, and that's how Diana (Taurasi) was. That's how Sue (Bird) was. We've had these types of people, but this is just bigger because the media platform is bigger than it ever has been...

"I don't have an ego, so I'm able to just tell the truth. If it was someone else, I'd be like, yeah, Angel Reese, she's also brought millions of fans, you know what I mean. I think Caitlin has brought way more, but I also think she has too. I'm just not naive, and I might be blonde, but I'm not (expletive ) dumb."

While the league has thrived in 2025, both Clark and Reese have faced challenges. Clark has missed 29 games, including the Commissioner’s Cup championship, because of multiple injuries. Reese watched her Sky get eliminated from playoff contention.

Even Cunningham suffered a season-ending injury of her own in her first year with the Fever. Yet Indiana, amid all the injury issues, still remains in a position to make the postseason.

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

More must-reads: