A.J. Dillon, the Philadelphia Eagles’ running back, has become a fan of the WNBA, particularly captivated by Sophie Cunningham’s actions during a recent game. While many sports fans have turned their attention to the WNBA, it wasn’t Caitlin Clark who captured Dillon’s interest, but rather her teammate, Sophie Cunningham. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Dillon expressed his admiration for Cunningham’s dedication to protecting her team’s best player.
Dillon, who is known for his sports passion, likened Cunningham’s protective stance to the way a quarterback would be safeguarded in American football. He noted that while Caitlin Clark is undeniably the star player of the Connecticut Sun, Cunningham’s actions during a heated incident demonstrated her commitment to her team. The situation arose when Jacy Sheldon of the Connecticut Sun fouled Clark in the eye, prompting a heated response from Cunningham, who committed a flagrant foul on Sheldon, resulting in her and Sheldon’s ejection from the game.
The incident sparked a broader conversation about the WNBA’s handling of protecting its top players, with Cunningham calling out the league for its perceived lack of protection for star athletes. Her actions have resonated with fans, including Dillon, who has since expressed his support for Cunningham by purchasing her jersey and planning to wear it on the 4th of July. This incident has not only highlighted the competitiveness within the WNBA but also the camaraderie and loyalty among its players toward their teammates and the league’s expectations.
As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity, events like these serve as reminders of the intense competition and the strong bonds between players. The incident involving Cunningham and Clark not only showcased the physical and emotional toll of professional sports but also the importance of defending one’s teammates, regardless of the consequences. For Dillon, it’s a reflection of the values he admires in sports, where loyalty and protection are paramount.