Caitlin Clark Jests with New Teammates as Fever Prepares for Preseason
Caitlin Clark, the highly anticipated sophomore guard for the Indiana Fever, has already begun building camaraderie with her new teammates, showcasing her playful personality as the team gears up for the upcoming WNBA season.
The lighthearted banter unfolded on social media after Sophie Cunningham, a recent acquisition for the Fever from the Phoenix Mercury, shared a photo on Instagram featuring herself alongside fellow teammate Lexie Hull. The image captured the pair ahead of their first preseason game against the Washington Mystics.
Clark, known for her competitive spirit and quick wit, couldn’t resist adding a humorous comment to the photo. "Little less tanning. A little more bball ladies," Clark quipped, a playful jab that quickly garnered over 10,000 likes from fans and followers alike.
Cunningham, embracing the jovial atmosphere, responded in kind, "The tan will come… everything else is perf," showcasing the budding rapport between the two players.
The exchange highlights the positive atmosphere within the Fever camp as they prepare for what many expect to be a transformative season, largely fueled by the arrival of Clark. Cunningham herself has expressed excitement about joining the team and playing alongside the talented rookie.
In an interview with Fox News Digital in April, Cunningham spoke glowingly of Clark, emphasizing her character and competitive drive. "We’ve talked quite a bit in the past couple of months since I’ve gotten traded, and she’s just a good human," Cunningham said. "I think she has humor to her, she has wit to her. Everyone that I’ve talked to said that she’s a great teammate. She just wants to win, right?"
Cunningham further elaborated on Clark’s enthusiasm for the Fever’s style of play, suggesting it aligns well with her strengths. "She said that she believes Indiana’s style of play is something she thrives in and that if the chemistry on the court is there, this team stands a good chance at winning a championship."
The addition of Cunningham, a seasoned veteran, is expected to provide valuable support and experience to the Fever roster. Her excitement about joining the team is palpable, and she sees the move as a fresh start in her career.
"I’m just excited for [Clark’s] competitiveness. I’m excited for everything she brings to the table. But again, I’m excited for everyone, right? You have Kelsey Mitchell, who’s been a vet, too, who has been there for years, who is a heck of a player as well. And so for me, just to kind of be a part of something for the first time – a new team for the first time in six years – I just think it’s a fresh wind. It’s what I needed. It’s re-motivated, its refocused my energy. And again, like at the end of the day, I just want to win. I want championships, and I think this is the right team for it."
Cunningham, 28, was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury in the second round of the 2019 WNBA Draft. Over the course of her career, she has established herself as a reliable and versatile player, appearing in 182 games. Her career averages include 7.7 points per game, 2.7 total rebounds, and 1.4 assists. Beyond her on-court performance, Cunningham has also become one of the league’s most popular figures, known for her engaging personality and connection with fans.
The Indiana Fever’s acquisition of Cunningham reflects their commitment to building a well-rounded team capable of contending for a championship. Her experience, combined with the talent of Clark and other key players like Kelsey Mitchell, creates a promising foundation for the upcoming season. The team’s focus on chemistry and a winning mentality is evident in the positive interactions between players and their shared aspirations.
As the Fever embark on their preseason schedule, the dynamic between Clark and her new teammates will be closely watched. The early signs are encouraging, suggesting a cohesive and supportive environment where players are comfortable interacting with each other both on and off the court.
The WNBA is poised for a season of increased attention and excitement, and the Indiana Fever are positioned to be a central focus. With Clark’s star power and the addition of experienced players like Cunningham, the team has the potential to make a significant impact and contend for a championship title. The playful banter and positive vibes emanating from the Fever camp are a testament to the team’s chemistry and their shared pursuit of success.
