In a move that has both fans and analysts buzzing, the Indiana Fever announced the firing of head coach Christie Sides just two years into her tenure. While it might have been a surprise to some—after all, the Fever just snapped an eight-year playoff drought—Sides showed her grace with a simple but potent farewell tweet: “Leave it better than you found it.” Who says parting ways can’t have style?
The decision comes on the heels of a season that saw the Fever reach a .500 regular-season record, a massive leap from Sides’ rocky start in 2023, where the team clocked in at 13-27. But despite the gains, Indiana’s front office had bigger fish to fry, issuing a statement that praised Sides for her work but hinted the Fever are on a fast track to championship glory. Translation? Thanks, Coach, but we’re looking for someone with a different spark.
With rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell in the ranks, the Fever clearly have a young roster bubbling with potential—and patience isn’t the name of their game. Fever President Kelly Krauskopf spoke warmly about Sides’ impact, thanking her for leading the team through a “transition period” but affirming the need for bold, assertive moves to keep their sights on a WNBA championship.
Sides’ work as a head coach might have been short-lived, but her reputation as a steady and positive influence won’t be forgotten soon. Besides, there’s nothing like a hint of sarcasm in a classy exit line to keep fans talking. Now, Fever fans are eagerly speculating who might take the reins. One early favorite being floated is Connecticut Sun coach Stephanie White—if she’s available, of course. But whoever steps in will have some big expectations to manage as Indiana aims for the top.
For Sides, who dedicated nearly a decade as an assistant coach before landing her shot at the big chair in 2023, her journey as head coach has come to a close. But she’s left her mark, and her parting message, short and sweet, says it all.