The Indiana Fever announced the hiring of Stephanie White as their new head coach, a move that marks an exciting new chapter for the franchise. White, who previously led the Connecticut Sun for two seasons, steps into her new role as Indiana aims to elevate its game, led by notable talents such as Caitlin Clark and back-to-back No. 1 draft pick Aliyah Boston.
In a statement, Kelly Krauskopf, president of basketball operations, expressed his excitement about White’s return, noting her deep connection to the Fever, both as a former player and a coach. Krauskopf emphasized White’s basketball acumen and leadership qualities, highlighting confidence in her ability to advance the team.
White, a native of Indiana and a celebrated player from Purdue University, shared her pride in returning to the Fever. She acknowledged the team’s commitment to winning and expressed her eagerness to guide the players through this crucial period in the franchise’s evolution, especially in the context of the growing prominence of women’s sports.
During an interview on ESPN’s “NBA Today,” White voiced her enthusiasm about working with a talented roster that includes generational talent Caitlin Clark and standout Kelsey Mitchell, who recently had the best season of her career. White’s impressive record with the Sun included a Coach of the Year accolade in 2023, and she is now set on aiming for the Fever’s first championship since 2012.
This coaching change follows the departure of Christie Sides, who led the Fever to a .500 record last season and their first playoff appearance since 2016. White’s hiring comes on the heels of other significant changes within the organization, including Krauskopf taking the presidency and Amber Cox appointed as COO and GM.
The Fever have witnessed a surge in fan engagement, leading the league in attendance with an average of over 17,000 spectators per game and attracting more than a million viewers for various matches. White’s familiarity with Clark, who she has admired since her eighth-grade playing days, sets a promising foundation for what lies ahead.
As the WNBA prepares for a record number of new head coaches in the upcoming season, White’s appointment signifies a hopeful and dynamic future for the Indiana Fever, as they aim to make their mark in the league once again.
This change presents a wave of anticipation as the Fever, under White’s experienced guidance, embark on a journey toward revitalization and potential championship success.