Now that the WNBA players are off duty many take advantage of their influence to try new things. A good example of this is Sophie Cunningham, who is showcasing her versatility changing the basketball courts with the golf courses.
The guard for the Indiana Fever will serve as a celebrity caddie for teammate Caitlin Clark at the ANNIKA Pro-Am in Florida, scheduled for November 12 at Pelican Golf Club. While it may seem unconventional for a WNBA star, this opportunity is a chance for Cunningham to keep exploring other sports, and by accompanying Caitlin Clark, it matches the growing presence of women athletes in multiple sporting arenas.
A new chance to prove herself
Cunningham, who joined the Fever in 2025 after spending several seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, approached the role with humor and humility. During her latest “Show Me Something” podcast with co-host West Wilson, she jokingly remarked that she hopes “not to get kicked out” of the event, signaling both her playful approach and willingness to engage in new experiences.
This is actually funny to hear as Cunningham got confused recently by mixing up golf’s most basic warning term. When she announced her caddie role on Instagram, she wrote “Four!” instead of “Fore!”, the actual correct term. Caitlin Clark gave her a quick hand correcting her.
However, by stepping into a high-profile golf environment alongside Caitlin Clark, Cunningham not only supports her teammate but also helps elevate the visibility of the Indiana Fever and the WNBA as a whole. These kinds of appearances create opportunities for fan engagement beyond the basketball court, even more now that the season is over. Her move also reflects a strategic approach by the Fever organization to expand its presence and brand awareness during the offseason.
A must-watch event
Beyond the strategy and marketing behind the situation, Cunningham’s participation speaks to another side of sports. The event will also feature other celebrity caddies like NASCAR driver Carson Hocevar and US Soccer Hall of Famer Brianna Scurry, so Cunningham’s will not be the only familiar face
For the Indiana Fever, events like the ANNIKA Pro-Am are more than just publicity opportunities. They foster team cohesion, enhance the organization’s visibility, and provide platforms for players to connect with broader audiences. The crossover of basketball and golf in this context illustrates how athletes, apart from being ambassadors for their sport, can also gather audiences from other fanbases.
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