Sophie Cunningham’s Heated Exchange in Fever Debut Draws Caitlin Clark Reaction

The Indiana Fever were without All-Star point guard Caitlin Clark in their 2025 WNBA preseason debut, hosting the Washington Mystics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Despite Clark’s absence, dealing with a left leg injury, numerous players made their debut with the Fever on Saturday. DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard received a spot in the starting lineup, while Sophie Cunningham was one of the first players off the bench.

And Clark is already excited about what Cunningham has brought to the team.

With just over five minutes to play in the second quarter, Cunningham was going for a loose ball off of a Mystics miss before Washington rookie Kiki Iriafen appeared to toss her to the floor.

Indiana Fever guards Lexie Hull and Caitlin Clark

© Mark Smith-Imagn Images

Cunningham immediately got up and had some heated words for Iriafen, both of whom were being held back by their teammates. After further review, the officials elected to give Iriafen a flagrant, handing Cunningham two free throw attempts. The former Mercury star hit one to decrease Indiana’s deficit.

Shortly after the incident occurred, a video appeared to show Cunningham jogging back to the bench while the officials reviewed the exchange with Iriafen. Clark was visibly pumped up for her new teammate, embracing her with a high five and a scream.

Cunningham should be a solid addition off the bench for the Fever. In 2024, she averaged 8.4 points on 37.8% from distance, 3.9 rebounds and 2.0 assists. With Clark healthy, Cunningham’s 3-point threat could provide Indiana with another weapon, especially given Clark’s playmaking abilities.

Following the Mystics game, the Fever will be back in action on Sunday, facing Brazil in Iowa City, home of the Iowa Hawkeyes, and another preseason game against the Atlanta Dream on May 10.

Indiana Fever will open regular season play on May 17 against the Chicago Sky.