Sophie Cunningham, a player for the Indiana Fever, commented on the treatment of Caitlin Clark by opposing players and referees during a podcast. She stated that players are 'targeting' Clark, referencing an incident where Phoenix Mercury player Alyssa Thomas punched Clark in the throat without a foul being called. Cunningham expressed concern over the lack of protection for Clark from the league and referees, saying, 'this type of [expletive] happens every single game to her.'
Cunningham also addressed her viral moment during a game, where she pointed at officials and Bonner, stating that Bonner was upset by her actions. She criticized the WNBA for not adequately promoting Clark, calling it a 'joke' that Clark was left off a commemorative graphic while Cunningham was included. Cunningham emphasized that the league should focus on marketing players like Clark and others who can attract attention to the league.