The Indiana Fever have appointed as their new head coach, entrusting her with the task of guiding a roster led by standout rookie Caitlin Clark, who recently earned WNBA Rookie of the Year honors. White, who previously served as the head coach of the Connecticut Sun for the past two seasons, parted ways with the Sun earlier this week. Her return to Indiana marks a familiar homecoming, as she was a crucial part of the Fever’s coaching staff from 2011 to 2016, including two seasons as the head coach. During her tenure on the staff, the Fever celebrated a WNBA championship in 2012.
White expressed excitement about her return, calling it a privilege to rejoin the Fever during such an important phase in the franchise’s history and in the broader landscape of women’s sports. “I am incredibly proud and honored to return home to Indiana and lead the Fever during such a pivotal moment in this franchise’s history, as well as during such an important time throughout women’s athletics,” White shared in a statement. She highlighted the Fever’s longstanding commitment to success and stated her dedication to bringing another WNBA title to the franchise’s passionate fan base.
White steps into the role previously held by Christie Sides, who coached the Fever to a 20-20 season, culminating in the team’s first playoff appearance since 2016. The Fever announced last Sunday that Sides, who led the team for two seasons, would not return, opening the door for White’s reappointment. White’s hiring is the first of seven head coaching vacancies in the WNBA to be resolved this season.
Kelly Krauskopf, president of basketball operations for the Fever, expressed confidence in White’s fit for the team, noting her familiarity with the Fever’s culture and her proven expertise as both a former player and coach within the franchise. “As we enter this new era of Fever basketball, I am thrilled to welcome Stephanie back to the franchise,” Krauskopf said. She emphasized White’s deep-rooted connection to the organization and praised her strong basketball knowledge and leadership skills. Krauskopf believes White’s return will elevate the team’s performance, positioning the Fever to excel with a blend of experienced and emerging talent.
Leave a Reply