The Indiana Fever have announced that head coach Stephanie White will be absent from Thursday’s game against the Golden State Valkyries due to personal reasons, marking the second time this season she has missed a game. Austin Kelly will step in as the acting head coach for this matchup.
Previously, Kelly took over the head coaching duties during the Fever’s 79-52 victory against the Chicago Sky on June 7, when White initially stepped away to support her partner, ESPN/ABC broadcaster Lisa Salters, during a family health issue. It remains unclear if White’s absence for the upcoming game is linked to the same circumstances.
Since returning from her brief hiatus, White has led the team in games against the Atlanta Dream, New York Liberty, and Connecticut Sun. She expressed gratitude for the support of her team during these challenging times, saying, “It’s helpful that we have such a great group, pouring into me and helping give me strength.”
White’s confidence in her coaching staff plays a vital role during her absence. She has known Kelly and her assistants, Karima Christmas-Kelly and Briann January, for over a decade, fostering a strong working relationship. Kelly, who played on the Fever’s 2012 championship team, previously worked with White at Vanderbilt and has been an integral part of her coaching staff since she joined the Fever.
This situation highlights the importance of teamwork and support within the Fever organization, showcasing their resilience in facing personal challenges while remaining focused on their performance on the court.