Sophie Cunningham Responds to Misinterpretations of Comments on Teammates

Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham has clarified misconceptions arising from her comments about teammates Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell. With the Fever’s success this season leading to a postseason appearance, Clark and Mitchell are both mentioned in discussions for the WNBA Most Valuable Player Award. Cunningham praised both as potential MVPs during her podcast last week with trainer Drew Hanlan.

This week, Hanlan noted that a clip from the prior episode gained attention online, showing Cunningham praising Mitchell. He mentioned receiving numerous comments with people angry at Cunningham, thinking her remarks undermined Caitlin Clark.

“I have two great players on my team, and I will support them both,” Cunningham said on the “No Hesitation” podcast. “Arguments can be made for both Kelsey and Caitlin as MVPs. The internet chose to focus selectively.”

Cunningham labeled the reaction as “psychotic” and offered insights into the WNBA media’s approach. Media also portrayed her as uninterested in her teammates Clark and Aliyah Boston during the FIBA World Cup Finals against France. However, she explained that her participation in a NASCAR promotion prevented her from watching the game.

Since joining the Fever alongside Clark several seasons ago, the 30-year-old WNBA star has become a prominent league personality, known for her candid opinions on various subjects. Her podcast with Hanlan aims to address narratives from the media and fans seeking viral content.

Meanwhile, the MVP race includes Clark and Mitchell, though neither is leading the competition. Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson is the favorite to secure the MVP title for a fifth time, followed by Minnesota Lynx rookie Olivia Miles.

The Indiana Fever will continue their regular season with a game against the Toronto Tempo on Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET.