Basketball World Erupts: Caitlin Clark’s Bullies Left Outraged as Indiana Fever Hires Enforcers for Her Protection

May 2, 2025 — Indianapolis, IN — Caitlin Clark’s rookie season with the Indiana Fever was marked by a meteoric rise to stardom, but it was also plagued by physical and aggressive defense that many believed crossed the line. Now, after a year of enduring cheap shots, hard fouls, and relentless attempts to intimidate her, Clark’s support system has officially shifted. The Indiana Fever, in a bold and strategic move, has brought in three veteran enforcers—Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, and DeWanna Bonner—to safeguard the WNBA’s most targeted star, and it has the bullies and critics fuming.

The Season of Physicality: Caitlin Clark’s Struggles

Clark’s debut season in the WNBA was nothing short of remarkable. As one of the most hyped rookies in recent history, she became the face of the Fever and one of the league’s brightest stars. However, with fame and success came a heightened level of aggression from opposing teams. The physicality Clark faced on the court was palpable, particularly from teams like the Chicago Sky, where her performance was often disrupted by flagrant fouls and cheap shots aimed at knocking her off her game.

Despite the constant barrage of hard fouls, Clark remained composed, displaying incredible resilience and mental toughness. Her ability to continue performing at a high level, even when under intense pressure, showcased her elite skills and determination. But even the toughest competitors can only withstand so much physical intimidation before it takes a toll. The Indiana Fever, recognizing the need for stronger protection for their star player, took decisive action to bolster their roster in the offseason.

The Arrival of the Enforcers: Howard, Cunningham, and Bonner

The Fever’s decision to sign Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, and DeWanna Bonner signals a dramatic shift in their approach to the upcoming season. These three players, known for their grit, toughness, and championship experience, will not only protect Clark but will also bring a level of intensity and physicality that will elevate the Fever to serious title contention.

Natasha Howard: A Defensive Powerhouse and Offensive Threat

The addition of Natasha Howard to the Fever roster is perhaps the most impactful. A former WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and a proven playoff performer, Howard brings a wealth of experience and defensive prowess to the team. Known for her ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses, Howard will be a crucial asset in defending not only Clark but also her teammates. Her tough, no-nonsense playing style is exactly what the Fever need to prevent opposing teams from targeting their star player.

“Natasha is a game-changer,” said Fever General Manager Tamika Catchings. “Her defensive presence alone will transform our team. But she’s also a versatile scorer who can create mismatches and open up the floor for Caitlin and the rest of our offense.”

Howard’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively gives the Fever a dynamic edge, making them even more formidable as a playoff contender. The presence of Howard on the court will undoubtedly make it harder for teams to focus solely on Clark, as they will now have to contend with multiple defensive threats.

Sophie Cunningham: Grit, Shooting, and Tenacity

Sophie Cunningham’s addition further strengthens the Fever’s toughness and perimeter game. Known for her aggressive playing style and determination, Cunningham brings a relentless attitude that will complement Clark’s offensive brilliance. With a solid three-point shooting percentage of 37.8% last season, Cunningham will provide the Fever with a scoring threat from the outside, opening up the floor for Clark to operate.

“She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, and she’s a proven shooter,” said Catchings. “Sophie will bring a level of energy and intensity that will be contagious. She’ll be a great fit alongside Caitlin and will provide a much-needed physical presence on the floor.”

Cunningham’s defensive capabilities, combined with her shooting and physicality, will make her an invaluable asset in the Fever’s push for a championship. Her toughness and tenacity on both ends of the floor will give Clark the breathing room she needs to focus on her game without having to constantly defend herself against aggressive plays.

DeWanna Bonner: Championship Pedigree and Leadership

DeWanna Bonner’s signing is another monumental step for the Fever, signaling a shift from rebuilding to championship contention. A multi-time WNBA champion and an elite scorer, Bonner brings not only her skills but also her leadership and experience in high-pressure situations. Her proven ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with her vast playoff experience, will be crucial for the Fever in tight games.

“DeWanna is a proven winner,” said Catchings. “She’s been there and done that, and she knows what it takes to win a championship. Her leadership and experience will be invaluable to our young team as we strive to reach our full potential.”

Bonner’s presence will help establish a winning culture in the Fever locker room, motivating both the veteran and younger players to elevate their game. As someone who has played at the highest levels, her leadership will be instrumental in guiding the team through challenging moments in their quest for the title.

A Team Built to Compete and Protect

With the additions of Howard, Cunningham, and Bonner, the Indiana Fever have built a team that is not only tough and versatile but also ready to contend for the WNBA championship. The move to protect Caitlin Clark from further physical intimidation shows the organization’s commitment to supporting their star player and ensuring that she can perform at the highest level without fear of injury or unfair play.

As Clark’s rookie season proved, the WNBA can be an unforgiving place, especially for players who become the focal point of opposing teams’ strategies. By surrounding Clark with players who bring both toughness and skill, the Fever are sending a clear message to the rest of the league: they are serious about competing for a championship, and they will do whatever it takes to protect their assets.

The Future of the Indiana Fever: A Championship Team in the Making

The Indiana Fever’s roster now has a perfect blend of youth, experience, and toughness, making them a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season. With the addition of these veteran enforcers, the team is ready to fight for a title and ensure that their star player, Caitlin Clark, is protected both physically and mentally.

Gone are the days when Clark had to deal with cheap shots and hard fouls without support. The Fever are ready to take the next step in their evolution, and with a roster now fortified with elite players like Howard, Cunningham, and Bonner, they have the tools they need to compete at the highest level.

As the WNBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever. With their newly strengthened roster and determination to win, they are poised to be one of the most exciting and dominant teams in the league. The Caitlin Clark bullies may have had their run, but that chapter is officially closed—now, it’s the Fever’s time to shine.