Sophie Cunningham Holds a Black Belt and Isn’t Afraid to Throw Down to Protect Caitlin Clark

Last night’s intense WNBA matchup between the Indiana Fever and Connecticut Sun wasn’t just a battle on the scoreboard — it was a physical showdown that left fans buzzing. The fiery confrontations, technical fouls, and ejections dominated the headlines, but one player stood out not just for her skills but for her sheer toughness and a surprising martial arts background.

Sophie Cunningham, who wasn’t afraid to take matters into her own hands during a heated altercation, revealed herself as more than just a basketball player — she’s a bona fide fighter, wielding a black belt in Taekwondo that she earned at the tender age of six.

The Incident: Protecting Caitlin Clark

The sparks flew early and often, but the tension peaked in the third quarter when Connecticut’s Jacy Sheldon poked Indiana’s star Caitlin Clark in the eye during a defensive play. Tempers flared immediately as a shoving match broke out, intensified further when Connecticut’s Marina Mabrey pushed Clark from behind.

That’s when Sophie Cunningham stepped in to defend her teammate, putting Sheldon in a chokehold while driving to the basket — a move that immediately caught the attention of players, coaches, and fans alike. Cunningham’s fierce protective instincts sent a loud message: anyone messing with Clark would have to go through her.

More Than Just a Tough Defender

While Cunningham’s basketball stats so far this season — averaging 6.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game over six games with the Fever — may seem modest, her value goes well beyond the numbers.

Fox Sports radio betting analyst Jared Smith highlighted Cunningham’s martial arts background, explaining how her black belt in Taekwondo, achieved when she was just six, adds a unique edge to her game. This training has instilled in her not only physical toughness but also discipline and the ability to remain composed under pressure — vital qualities in a league as competitive as the WNBA.

An Enforcer for Indiana Fever

Since joining the Indiana Fever after six seasons with the Phoenix Mercury in a multi-team trade, Cunningham has emerged as the team’s enforcer and protector. Caitlin Clark, known for her dazzling skills and offensive prowess, has often faced aggressive defenses aimed at rattling her. With Cunningham backing her up, opponents now have a formidable obstacle to reckon with.

Clark herself has expressed appreciation for Cunningham’s support, acknowledging how having a teammate willing to stand up and fight has lifted her confidence on the court.

A Toughness That Translates On and Off the Court

Cunningham’s black belt and combat skills aren’t just for show. They translate into her fearless approach to defense and her readiness to engage physically when needed. Her willingness to “go to war” for her team has endeared her to Fever fans and created a new level of respect among her peers.

WNBA coaches and players have taken note of Cunningham’s no-nonsense style, which adds a critical layer of toughness to Indiana’s roster. As the Fever look to build momentum this season, Cunningham’s presence could prove pivotal.

Looking Forward

As the Fever continue their campaign, Cunningham’s role as Clark’s protector and a physical force in the paint will likely become even more important. With rival teams aware of Cunningham’s martial arts skills and her readiness to back up her star player, Indiana’s dynamic duo just gained a new weapon.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Cunningham’s blend of basketball skill and fighting spirit shapes the rest of the season — and whether she’ll keep raising the stakes whenever Clark’s opponents try to get physical.