Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham’s bond requires no intro. But once again, the Indiana Fever No. 22 expressed what she appreciates the most about Cunningham.

Going into this season, the Fever secured Cunningham by a single-year, $665,000 contract. Although she’s yet to find long-term stability in Indianapolis, Clark knew exactly why Cunningham is important for the team.

"I think the thing I appreciate about Sophie more than anything is like she's never intimidated by the moment," Clark stated during a recent press conference. "She rises to the occasion every single time. She's going to have her teammates’ backs…”

In her first game since a torn MCL injury, the 29-year-old blasted with 13 points in the 109-91 win against the New York Liberty. But Clark mainly applauded her for being “one of the loudest voices out there” when the team’s “backs are against the wall.”

Indeed, Soph has a “cool” side to her. But Clark knew, “when she steps on the floor, she's fierce … and is going to do anything to help (the) team win.” And something like that goes beyond any stats and records.

The Fever 22 confidently stated that any team would love to get a Cunningham of their own. But Fever’s contract said otherwise, a matter that Cunningham also voiced out.

Sophie Cunningham’s Frustration Over the Contract

Widely known as Caitlin Clark’s “bodyguard” or “protector”, Cunningham had always assumed a protective role towards the 24-year-old. And that’s why the single-year, yet high-salaried contract did not sit well with her.

"It was never about the money; it was just about the years because I wanted to be with them. God forbid a girl loves her teammates,” Cunningham said recently, per reporter Tony East. “I think that we just have something special here… I’m just grateful to be back.”

Now, whether the franchise will add years to Cunningham’s contract or not, time will tell. But apart from that, do you agree with Clark’s statements about Soph? Comment it down.

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Written by

Deblina Roy

Edited by

Souvik Roy