Those aren’t the words of someone reluctant to join the Indiana Fever. That’s pure, unfiltered excitement from Sophie Cunningham, the WNBA’s fiery enforcer, ready to make an immediate impact and shake things up for Caitlin Clark and the Fever.

While WNBA legend Cheryl Swoopes was publicly claiming that “nobody wants to play in Indiana,” Sophie was doing the exact opposite—lighting up the internet with her joy about joining the team. From her press conference to her workouts and social media, everything about Sophie’s arrival screams one thing: the Fever just got the missing piece, and the haters better brace themselves.

So, where was Sophie when she found out she was being traded?  

Poolside in Phoenix.

“I was literally by the pool,” she laughed. “At first, it was emotional because I’ve been in Phoenix for so long. But honestly? My immediate thought was: ‘Heck yeah—we’re about to win a championship.’”

She made it clear this move wasn’t just about basketball—it was about culture, growth, and winning.

Sophie’s not just excited to be in Indiana—she’s *home*. Originally from Missouri, she shared how important it was to be closer to her family and support system.

“My sister has a kid, one on the way… family means everything to me. And already, I’ve had over 100 people ask me about season tickets!”

In a league full of big personalities, Sophie emphasized the importance of humility and hard work.

“When you have a group that’s all in—no egos, just working hard to win—that’s the dream. That’s the team I want to be on.”

Her energy immediately clicked with the fanbase. From the moment she walked into Gainbridge Fieldhouse, her passion was contagious.

**What This Means for Caitlin Clark**

Let’s be real: last season, Caitlin Clark took a beating on the court. She was pushed, hit, screened hard, and often left without backup.  

Now? That changes.  

Sophie Cunningham has a reputation—she protects her teammates and doesn’t back down.  

“If Caitlin wants it, I’m here for her. I’m feisty. I’m fierce. I stick up for my teammates.”

And she means it. In Phoenix, Sophie was known for never letting opponents mess with her squad without answering for it. She’s bringing that same energy to Indiana.

It’s not just her toughness that makes Sophie a perfect addition.  

She’s a legit sharpshooter—38% from three over the last four seasons, with a career-high 40% in 2022. She gives Indiana *exactly* what they lacked last year: another floor spacer who forces defenses to stay honest.

Imagine this:  

Clark drives → kicks it to the corner → Sophie nails the three.  

Opponents can’t collapse on Caitlin anymore without risking easy points from deep.

At 6’1″, Sophie can guard 1 through 4. She can play the shooting guard, the small forward, or even the stretch four. Her defensive versatility gives Coach Stephanie White more flexibility than ever before.

“She’s aggressive, physical, and unafraid,” said one Fever assistant. “Exactly what we needed.”

Sophie isn’t just bringing grit—she’s bringing experience. With 15 playoff games under her belt, she’s battle-tested and hungry for more.

“I’ve always loved Stephanie White as a coach. It feels like the perfect time to finally work together. I love her offense, her approach to players—it’s just a great fit.”

Sophie’s already in the gym, grinding with trainer Keith Porter, doing contact drills and deep-range shooting sessions. This isn’t a player easing into a new city—this is a veteran on a mission.

“Caitlin has changed the game,” Sophie said. “And I’m just excited to be a part of something great.”

With her defensive toughness, elite shooting, Midwest roots, and infectious energy, Sophie Cunningham is here to prove that Indiana *is* a destination—and the Fever are no longer just rebuilding. They’re ready to contend.

And to all the critics who said no one wants to play in Indiana?

Sophie just gave them a front-row seat to the show.