Sophie Cunningham, a veteran forward for the Fever, didn’t mince words when she identified what she believes is Caitlin Clark’s most glaring weakness. According to her, Clark’s offensive brilliance can conceal a vulnerability that savvy defenders could exploit.
Sharp Assessment from Cunningham
During a recent media session, Cunningham said Clark dominates with her court vision and shooting mechanics. However, she argued that when plays break down, Clark tends to force things. Cunningham observed that Clark can struggle under heavy defensive pressure, especially when opponents collapse into the paint. She added that Clark’s go-to moves often involve pick-and-rolls and dribble-hand-offs — and when those options are removed or disrupted, she looks less comfortable.
Clark’s Offensive Dependence
Cunningham emphasized that Clark’s reliance on structured plays is both a strength and a risk. While her decision-making is lightning fast in transition or set plays, she sometimes falters when her rhythm is disrupted. According to Cunningham, if defenders fake a trap or anticipate a drive, Clark has fewer reliable alternatives. As a result, she may settle for off-balance shot attempts or turnovers.
Defensive Pressure Exposed
What Cunningham revealed most critically is how Clark handles defensive aggression. She argues that when teams bring double teams or rotate quickly, Clark’s first instinct is to dish out, not to shoot. Cunningham believes that this tendency can be exploited: the moment Clark hesitates, the defense has already closed passing lanes or boxed in her options. In those moments, Cunningham thinks her weakness becomes most visible.
Consistency Under Fire
Moreover, Cunningham noted that Clark’s level of play fluctuates more than many realize. In high-stakes situations, Cunningham says Clark’s composure remains top-tier, but under intense, sustained defense, fatigue creeps in. That fatigue, according to Cunningham, leads to sloppy ball handling or rushed decisions. That, in turn, presents a real opening for disciplined teams to punish her.
Impact on Future Games
If Cunningham is right, teams may rethink how they guard Clark. Instead of solely contesting her shot, defensive coordinators could focus on more aggressive trap schemes. By forcing her to pass or dribble into trouble, they might limit her high-percentage looks. In addition, Cunningham’s assessment signals that balanced offenses with strong help defenders could exploit Clark’s hesitation and pressure response.
Strategic Adjustments for the Fever
Cunningham’s insight also gives her own team a blueprint. She suggests that by closing off Clark’s primary passing lanes, her teammates could force Clark into tougher decisions. She also believes that rotating defenders smartly and committing to quick help could rattle Clark’s offensive flow. If executed properly, this plan could blunt her impact without relying on big shot-blockers alone.
Conclusion
Sophie Cunningham’s bold criticism highlights a side of Caitlin Clark that often remains hidden behind her scoring feats. While Clark is undeniably talented, Cunningham insists that her handling of defensive chaos — especially when traps or rotations come quickly — remains a major chink in her armor. As teams prepare for future matchups, they may well use Cunningham’s observations as a playbook to disrupt what many consider Clark’s unshakeable game.
