Sophie Cunningham has become an unexpected merch hit for the Indiana Fever, not because of her stats, but due to a memorable moment on the court.
Her No. 8 jersey sold out in hours after a high-energy confrontation involving rookie superstar Caitlin Clark. Fans nationwide rushed to grab the shirt, pushing Fever merchandise into a frenzy and surprising league observers.
Cunningham, a six-year WNBA veteran previously with the Phoenix Mercury, has already made a strong first impression. In a press conference after joining the Fever in February, she admitted: “I’m feisty, I’m fierce, I’m sassy. I stick up for my teammates, I stick up for myself, and I think that’s a good thing.”
Little did anyone realize that her bold self-description would resonate so widely, or translate directly into sold-out shirts.
A sellout fueled by passion and performance
The demand for Cunningham‘s No. 8 was so overwhelming that Fever officials were caught off guard. Sizes from medium to 2XL vanished almost immediately after being released online and at team stores.
Even the smallest sizes quickly reached “low stock.” One Fever spokesperson admitted, “We knew she would bring energy … but the demand … exceeded all expectations.”
This surge is tied closely to the so-called “Caitlin Clark effect.” Since joining the team, Clark has ignited unprecedented fan interest, attendance is up, TV ratings are soaring, and merchandise sales have climbed steeply.
Cunningham has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries, becoming a symbol of the Fever’s aggressive identity.
Sophie herself reflected on the dynamic, telling Sports Illustrated: “She has changed our game in the best possible way in every way … Just to be alongside of her … anything she needs from me I’m gonna be here.”
Her role quickly transcends just being a role player; Cunningham is status as a protector, mentor, and energizer in a young, high-profile roster.
Confidence meets commerce
Cunningham‘s arrival coincided with several high-impact moments. She clashed physically with opponents during preseason and served as a calming presence when Clark, known for picking up techs, was ejected from one game.
Her aggressive, “dawg”-like presence, as coach Stephanie White called it, has paid dividends, both on the court and in merchandising.
And it wasn’t just about athleticism. On social media, collaborations contrasted her style to Clark‘s: Cunningham said Clark was the “Taylor Swift” and she the “Sabrina Carpenter”, the star and steadfast opener.
That blend of personality, relatability, and competitive fire struck a chord with fans, amplifying early enthusiasm.
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