Sophie Cunningham Fires Back at Caitlin Clark Haters: “You’re Dumb as F***”
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham is making headlines — not just for her on-court hustle, but for her fearless defense of teammate Caitlin Clark. In the debut episode of her new podcast Sophie & West, the 28-year-old sharpshooter delivered a fiery message to those who question Clark’s status as the face of the WNBA.
“It pisses me off when people say she’s not the face of the league,” Cunningham said bluntly. “There are really good, well-known people in our league—I’m not discrediting them. We have a lot of badasses. But when people try to argue that she’s not the face of our league or our league would be where it’s at without her, you’re dumb as s***. You’re dumb as f***.”
Cunningham’s unfiltered rant struck a chord with many fans who are tired of the constant criticism Clark faces — despite being one of the most impactful figures in women’s basketball history.
Once considered a fringe starter during her first six seasons, Cunningham has carved out a new identity in Indiana as both a reliable shooter and an emotional spark for the Fever. She’s also emerged as something of an “enforcer” for Clark — a tough, outspoken presence who won’t hesitate to stand up for her teammate on or off the court.
Her no-nonsense, heel-like personality — reminiscent of a professional wrestling villain — has quickly made her one of the WNBA’s most compelling figures. Whether it’s clapping back at critics or riling up rival fanbases, Cunningham doesn’t shy away from confrontation.
Clark, of course, has become the centerpiece of the league’s new wave of attention. Her college career at Iowa drew record-breaking viewership, and her arrival in the WNBA has brought unprecedented media attention, ticket sales, and fan engagement. While some argue the league was already growing thanks to stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu, there’s no denying Clark’s impact has been seismic.
Cunningham believes the criticism of Clark is either rooted in personal dislike or a failure to understand how economics and star power drive professional sports. “Clark is why people are tuning in,” she suggests — and that popularity could finally push the WNBA toward profitability.
Her defense of Clark comes at a time when tensions in the league are high, with debates swirling around respect, rookie treatment, and the balance between tradition and growth. But Cunningham’s message is clear: whether you like it or not, Caitlin Clark is the face of the league — and denying that is not only wrong, it’s ignorant.
As the Fever continue to battle through the season, one thing’s for sure: with Sophie Cunningham on her side, Caitlin Clark doesn’t have to fight her battles alone.
