Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham recently revealed that she invited teammate Caitlin Clark to participate in the new basketball startup, Project B. Cunningham disclosed this information on her podcast, Show Me Something, hosted with West Wilson, emphasizing the growing presence of alternative pro leagues outside the WNBA.
Though Cunningham tried to recruit Clark to join Project B, the rising star declined the offer. Cunningham acknowledged the WNBA’s dominant platform, stating, “if you don’t have the [WNBA], you don’t have the platform. So, you don’t have the eyes. You don’t have the recognition.” This highlights why many top American players, including Clark, prioritize the WNBA over emerging leagues.
Despite Clark’s rejection, Cunningham expressed excitement about playing alongside fellow Fever teammate Kelsey Mitchell in Project B. After initial hesitation, Cunningham decided to sign on upon learning about the league’s top-tier treatment, including charter flights and advanced player care. She also dispelled rumors linking Project B to Saudi Arabian backers, affirming the league is supported by four wealthy tech companies instead.
Several prominent WNBA players have committed to Project B, a league founded by former Facebook executive Grady Burnett and Skype co-founder Geoff Prentice. Players such as Seattle Storm’s Nneka Ogwumike, Phoenix Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas, and New York Liberty’s Jonquel Jones are all set to participate, showing considerable star power behind the venture.
Project B plans to feature six teams with 11 players each, competing on a traveling circuit overseas from November through April. The league aims to address concerns around player compensation by reportedly offering salaries starting at $2 million annually, a figure significantly higher than current WNBA contracts and relevant amid the WNBA’s ongoing collective bargaining discussions.
Cunningham summed up her decision positively: “What a great time to expand my brand globally. I get to play year-round, which will help me stay in shape … I’m hitting my prime.” This statement reflects how Project B could reshape professional women’s basketball landscapes for players seeking new opportunities beyond the WNBA season.
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