The WNBA is moving faster than ever since Indiana Fever phenom Caitlin Clark hit the professional level. Her presence has led to unprecedented viewership and attendance numbers, boosting the league’s revenue in a manner reminiscent of Michael Jordan’s impact on the NBA.
With the stakes so high, teams are eager to position themselves as championship contenders. This urgency was evident as seven of the league’s 12 head coaches from last season lost their jobs during the offseason, signaling the fierce competitive climate.
This offseason has also seen blockbuster trades, with one involving Clark. “Phoenix is getting Satou Sabally, Kalani Brown, and Sevgi Uzun from Dallas. DAL gets Ty Harris, rights to Kiki Herbert Harrigan, NaLyssa Smith, and the No. 8 pick. Indiana IND gets Sophie Cunningham and the No. 19 pick,” reported ESPN’s Alexa Philippou.
Sources tell ESPN:
Phoenix is getting Satou Sabally, Kalani Brown, and Sevgi Uzun from Dallas
DAL gets Ty Harris, rights to Kiki Herbert Harrigan, NaLyssa Smith, No. 8 pick from Indiana
IND gets Sophie Cunningham, No. 19 pick
— Alexa Philippou (@alexaphilippou) February 1, 2025
Fans shared their thoughts on social media, with reactions ranging from praise to sarcasm. “It’s hilarious because if Sophie were black, the new Fever/CC fans would HATE her. She’s a shooter known for agitating and instigating. Few players in the W are chippier after the whistle than Sophie. But of course, Fever nation will love her and her antics,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Crying tears of joy as a Mercury fan! By Maga Barbie!” A sarcastic attendee responded, “Oh nice. Team up Trump voter with white power leader Caitlin Fire combo,” while another joked, “The Maga Avengers have aligned.”
It will be intriguing to see if this trade is what Clark and the Fever need to push past their current challenges.