Sophie Cunningham Makes Her Opinion of Caitlin Clark’s Injury Extremely Clear

Through four games, the Fever sit at 2-2, with their two wins coming by a combined 40 points. However, they could have remained undefeated if not for four late-game free throws that ultimately cost them two close losses.

But now that Sophie Cunningham is back from injury, Indiana will be moving forward without Clark. The All-WNBA guard suffered a left quad strain that will keep her out for a minimum of two weeks.

This best-case scenario recovery time would have her returning around June 10 against the Atlanta Dream. In the meantime, the Fever will likely play at least the next four games without Clark.

But Cunningham appears to embrace the challenge of playing without Clark. During the Fever’s media availability on Tuesday, the former Phoenix Mercury star claimed Clark’s injury is a “great opportunity” for the rest of the team.

“Again, I think it’s a great opportunity for us,” Cunningham said. “Clearly, we want her out there. I think she draws so much attention, and she’s a phenomenal, phenomenal player. But at the same time, I think it’s a great time for her to learn from the sidelines.”

Without Clark’s playmaking abilities, averaging 9.3 assists per game, the Fever will have to make some adjustments offensively, and Cunningham knows it.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to learn offense,” she added. “Move the ball, pass, cut. We just can’t stand and watch anymore. I think it’s going to be good for us to actually get into our action. And defensively, for us to take another jump.”

In two games played, Cunningham has been a solid option for Indiana off the bench. She is averaging 7.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 20.0 minutes per game, shooting 50% from the 3-point line.

Indiana’s first game without Clark will be on Wednesday, when they face the Washington Mystics.