In a twist worthy of reality TV, the Indiana Fever decided that making the playoffs for the first time in seven long years just wasn’t enough to keep head coach Christie Sides around. Despite guiding her team to an impressive 20-20 season and seeing them nab a playoff spot (even if the Connecticut Sun quickly dimmed those hopes), Sides finds herself out of a job, sparking plenty of buzz – and maybe a bit of a side-eye – from Fever fans everywhere.
In typical team-leader fashion, Fever president of basketball operations Kelly Krauskopf expressed deep gratitude for Sides’ contributions, thanking her for steering the Fever through a “transition period.” If by “transition” Krauskopf means breaking a post-season drought that could’ve made a cactus jealous, then yes, Christie did just that. But Krauskopf hinted that Indiana’s “bold” and “assertive” goals demand a fresh face on the sidelines to maximize their talent – and presumably win more than one playoff game.
A Sneak Peek at the Next Fever Coach?
So, what’s next for the Fever? If the rumor mill is to be believed, Stephanie White, the current Connecticut Sun head coach, might be trading in her Connecticut orange for some classic Indiana red, white, and blue. White is no stranger to the Fever, having not only played five seasons with the team but also served as an assistant coach from 2011 to 2014 before stepping up as head coach from 2015 to 2016. A second run at Fever glory? It’s the stuff of sports soap operas.
But White’s got options. Chicago Sun-Times reported that White had been flirting with multiple teams and even dropped hints that she might be ready to part ways with the Sun. Talk about keeping your options open! She’s reportedly already in talks with the Chicago Sky, the Fever, and of course, her current team, the Sun. It’s a basketball love triangle for the ages, with White smack dab in the middle.
Rookie Stars and Future Playoff Runs: What’s Next for the Fever?
It’s a curious move for the Fever. Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark became the heartbeat of Indiana’s lineup, dazzling fans, and helping drive the Fever to that hard-fought playoff berth. Yet, Sides is now on the outs, a coaching shuffle underway, and everyone’s waiting to see who will lead this promising squad in 2025.
Will Stephanie White, a hometown favorite, return to Indiana and bring her coaching chops back to the place she called home? Or will the Fever surprise everyone with an out-of-left-field pick? If there’s one thing WNBA fans know by now, it’s to expect the unexpected – and to keep an eye on those team press releases.