The WNBA’s offseason isn’t just about basketball anymore—it’s starting to resemble a game of musical chairs, with everyone scrambling for a seat. And with seven head coaching vacancies, it’s more like speed dating with a whiteboard and whistle.
Fever’s Familiar Face
First up, the Indiana Fever. This team has been ghosted by playoff appearances for so long it was starting to feel like a lifetime ban. But thanks to Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, they snapped the league’s longest active postseason drought. The Fever went from “league’s laughing stock” to “actually relevant” under Christie Sides, but apparently, “relevant” wasn’t enough for the front office. Instead, they’ve brought back Stephanie White, a name Fever fans know well. White was a former player, assistant, and head coach in Indiana. In fact, she’s the last Fever coach to lead them to a playoff win (yes, it’s been that long).
White has the ultimate endorsement—the one from Clark herself, which these days might be the WNBA equivalent of getting a blessing from a basketball oracle. “I’ve been watching Caitlin play since she was in eighth grade,” White said. Creepy? Maybe. Effective? You bet.
Chicago Sky High on Marsh
Now, let’s talk about the Chicago Sky, where Teresa Weatherspoon somehow became a one-season wonder—but not in the good way. Despite nearly dragging her team into the playoffs and bonding with Rookie of the Year runner-up Angel Reese, Weatherspoon was shown the door. They said it was about “lack of experience,” which is hilarious given that Weatherspoon is a legend in her own right. Plus, there’s this thing called “roster construction,” but let’s not dwell.
Instead, the Sky swiped former Las Vegas Aces assistant Tyler Marsh, who’s basically Becky Hammon’s right hand and happens to be dripping in championship experience. Angel Reese’s social media post saying simply, “W” was all the confirmation anyone needed. Marsh is known for his player development chops, and we’re all here to see if he can turn the Sky around. If not, hey, he’s probably got at least a year.
The Dream Have a (New) Dream
Over in Atlanta, Tanisha Wright turned a former dumpster fire into a playoff team with defense-first grit, all while making the best use of top draft pick Rhyne Howard. But that wasn’t enough for the Dream, who politely said, “Thanks for all the help, now don’t let the door hit you.” The Dream had the worst offense in the league, and Wright was supposed to be the fix-it. Now, they’re looking for someone who might just believe in offense.
Sparks Fly, But Only in the Bad Way
Out in L.A., the Sparks’ ambitious offseason plan included stealing Curt Miller away from Connecticut, where he led the Sun to two Finals appearances. It was a good idea in theory, but sometimes life just doesn’t play nice. Their roster turned into a MASH unit, so it wasn’t a huge shock when things went south. After finishing last, Miller was sent packing. Considering the Sparks had to crawl through the season on hands and knees, this firing seems a bit harsh. But L.A. wants a “new direction”—a direction that, one assumes, involves fewer injuries and maybe a couple of offensive rebounds.
The Sun Also Sets
As for the Connecticut Sun, Stephanie White—yes, the same Stephanie White now with the Fever—walked away from a 55-25 record and two semifinal runs. Apparently, White had to make a tough choice due to family concerns. Sun president Jen Rizzotti said they parted “on good terms,” but we all know that’s just a polite way of saying “awkward.” With their postseason exit, rumors were swirling about White’s possible departure, and now here we are. The Sun’s still left looking for a new head honcho while clutching their third-seed status and praying for better luck next year.
Mystics Mystified by… Everything
Finally, the Washington Mystics, where things get weird. Mike Thibault, long-time GM and head coach, passed the baton to his son, Eric, before this season. Eric’s season went sideways fast, with injuries stacking up like Jenga blocks and an early 0-12 start that probably made him wish he’d just stuck to shadowing his dad. They pulled it together enough to be in the playoff conversation until the last day, but that wasn’t enough to save Eric’s job. With the elder Thibault also gone, it looks like the Mystics are wiping the slate clean.
What’s Next?
Only five WNBA coaching vacancies left, folks! The upcoming expansion draft will bring Golden State into the mix, and there’s sure to be more drama, rebuilds, and—hopefully—fewer injuries. The coaching carousel is far from over, and with any luck, we’re in for even more curveballs before the season even starts.
