Sophie Cunningham on playing with Caitlin Clark. It’s nice to see players giving Caitlin her flowers….
Sophie Cunningham, a prominent guard for the Phoenix Mercury, has openly expressed her admiration for Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s standout rookie. Cunningham’s commendations highlight Clark’s significant impact on the WNBA and underscore the supportive camaraderie among players in the league.
In a recent interview, Cunningham lauded Clark’s exceptional performance and the positive attention she has brought to women’s basketball. She stated, “I think especially Caitlin Clark, she has been killing it, and I’m a huge fan. And I never say that. But I think it’s super fun what she’s doing.”
Cunningham further emphasized the importance of embracing the increased viewership and interest that players like Clark have attracted to the WNBA. She noted that any negativity towards this surge in attention might stem from jealousy, asserting, “If you have really anything negative to say about all the viewership and everything that this rookie class is doing, I just think that you’re not capitalizing on it, and you might be a little jealous.”
Beyond her praise, Cunningham has expressed a desire to play alongside Clark in the future. Reflecting on their interactions during the All-Star Weekend, she described Clark as “a gem” and expressed admiration for how she handles the pressure associated with her rising stardom. Cunningham remarked, “I would love to play with her one day, for real.”
Cunningham also acknowledged the challenges Clark faces as a high-profile rookie, emphasizing the collective responsibility within the league to support one another. She stated, “She has a lot of pressure on her shoulders… At the end of the day, we just all need to empower each other and be there for each other.”
This sentiment of support is echoed by other WNBA veterans. Candace Parker, a two-time WNBA champion, expressed respect for the attention Clark brings to the sport and offered her advice on navigating a professional basketball career. Parker emphasized the importance of enjoying the journey, noting, “The days are long, but the years are short.”
Temi Fagbenle, Clark’s teammate on the Fever, praised her basketball IQ and playmaking abilities. Fagbenle highlighted Clark’s vision on the court, stating, “I’ve only had a few of those kind of point guards, who you just know sees the play before it’s happened.”
Clark’s influence extends beyond individual accolades; she has significantly boosted attendance, viewership, and merchandise sales for the Fever. Her presence has led to a 320% increase in game attendance and has been credited with contributing an estimated $36 million to the economy of Indianapolis.
The recognition and support from established players like Cunningham not only validate Clark’s contributions but also reflect a broader culture of mentorship and solidarity within the WNBA. This environment fosters growth and ensures that emerging talents receive the encouragement they need to thrive.
In conclusion, Sophie Cunningham’s commendations of Caitlin Clark exemplify the mutual respect and support that define the WNBA. As Clark continues to make her mark in the league, the acknowledgment from her peers serves as both a testament to her abilities and a reminder of the collective effort to elevate women’s basketball.
