Sophie Cunningham stirred up drama off the court this week with a fiery take that brought back memories of Joakim Noah’s infamous Cleveland slander. But if she expected silence from the Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell was quick to make sure that didn’t happen.
During a recent media appearance, Cunningham—known for her tenacity on the court with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury—took a jab at Cleveland, echoing sentiments once made viral by Noah years ago. “What’s there to do in Cleveland?” she quipped, with a smirk that made her opinion loud and clear.
For longtime NBA fans, the moment was déjà vu. Back in the early 2010s, Joakim Noah, then with the Chicago Bulls, famously said, “Nobody vacations in Cleveland.” His remark lit a fire under Cavaliers fans—and it seems Cunningham is following in his footsteps.
But not everyone is laughing.
Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, never one to shy away from defending his squad and city, responded with subtle but sharp intent. On social media, Mitchell didn’t hold back, posting:
“We love it here. Energy different. Keep watching.”
Mitchell, who’s become a fan favorite in Cleveland, has embraced the city since arriving via trade from Utah. His reaction, though measured, made it clear: taking cheap shots at Cleveland might grab headlines—but the Cavs are too focused on rising to let the noise shake them.
Fans from both the WNBA and NBA chimed in online, sparking a mini Twitter feud that blended humor and hometown pride. Clevelanders defended their city’s culture, grit, and sports loyalty, while others applauded Cunningham for speaking her mind in classic no-filter fashion.
As for Cunningham, she’s used to playing the villain on opposing courts—and clearly doesn’t mind the smoke off it either.
Whether it was a playful jab or serious shade, one thing is clear: Cleveland’s still not the place to throw shots without getting one back. Especially not with Donovan Mitchell on the timeline.
Leave a Reply