Caitlin Clark, one of the brightest rising stars in the WNBA, has already expressed great enthusiasm for the Indiana Fever’s newest head coach, Stephanie White. Speaking during a special segment on “The Bird & Taurasi Show,” which aired during the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship Game, Clark took a moment to publicly praise White, emphasizing her admiration and respect for the veteran coach’s basketball acumen and leadership style.
The NCAA championship game, featuring a high-stakes matchup between top-seeded South Carolina and second-seeded UConn, provided the perfect stage for Clark to engage with two of women’s basketball’s most legendary figures—Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird. During their candid conversation, Clark was quick to share her thoughts on the Fever’s coaching change and what it meant for her future and the team as a whole.
Clark didn’t hold back her excitement about working under Stephanie White. “She is one of the smartest basketball minds I’ve ever been around,” Clark said, smiling as she reflected on their early interactions. “Everybody admires her and the way she coaches and the way she leads. I’m excited to learn from her.” Her statement offered insight into how much she values strong mentorship and a clear strategic vision—qualities she sees in White.
The coaching change came after the Fever decided to part ways with Christie Sides following the conclusion of the 2024 WNBA season. The move signaled a new chapter for the organization, which has been working to rebuild and recapture its place among the league’s elite teams. White’s hiring was met with wide approval, not only because of her prior history with the franchise but also due to her recent success elsewhere in the league.
Stephanie White is no stranger to the Indiana Fever. Her previous tenure as head coach spanned from 2015 to 2016. Before taking over the top job, she served on the Fever’s coaching staff from 2011 to 2014 under the leadership of Lin Dunn. During that time, she contributed significantly to the team’s success, including their 2012 WNBA Championship run. Now, almost a decade later, White returns to Indianapolis armed with more experience, a deeper coaching resume, and an enduring passion for the game.
Most recently, White spent two seasons as the head coach of the Connecticut Sun, where she continued to build on her legacy. Her overall record as a WNBA head coach now stands at an impressive 92-56. Even more notably, she has guided her teams to the playoffs every season she has coached, a testament to her ability to get the best out of her players and compete at the highest levels. In 2023, her coaching efforts were formally recognized when she was named WNBA Coach of the Year.
Before she ever picked up a clipboard on the sidelines, Stephanie White was a powerhouse on the court. A standout at Purdue University, she was an integral part of the Boilermakers’ 1999 national championship team. Her playing career was decorated with prestigious accolades, including the Wade Trophy, the Honda Sports Award, and All-American honors. She was also named the Big Ten Athlete of the Year, further cementing her status as one of the most accomplished players in college basketball history.
Clark’s excitement is rooted not only in White’s pedigree but also in the possibilities that lie ahead for the Fever. Entering her second season in the WNBA, Clark already boasts an impressive stat line. During her rookie year, she averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. Her contributions on the court led Indiana to its first playoff appearance since 2016. She also broke several rookie records, quickly proving that she belongs among the elite.
The Indiana Fever’s outlook for the 2025 season is bright, bolstered by a mix of returning talent and strategic acquisitions. Key players from last season—such as Aliyah Boston, Kelsey Mitchell, and Lexie Hull—are all expected to continue playing pivotal roles. Boston, in particular, has emerged as a force in the paint, complementing Clark’s perimeter play with her strong inside presence.
In addition to retaining their core, the Fever made significant moves during the offseason. The team added veterans Sophie Cunningham, DeWanna Bonner, Sydney Colson, and Brianna Turner. These acquisitions provide depth, leadership, and a wealth of playoff experience, which will be crucial as Indiana sets its sights on a deep postseason run. Each of these players brings a unique skill set to the team, and under White’s guidance, they are expected to mesh well with the existing roster.
All signs point to the Fever being a legitimate contender in 2025. With Stephanie White at the helm and Caitlin Clark leading the charge on the court, the organization seems poised for a resurgence. White’s ability to develop players and instill a winning culture aligns perfectly with the team’s current trajectory. Moreover, Clark’s infectious energy, relentless work ethic, and uncanny court vision make her the ideal centerpiece for this promising squad.
The synergy between coach and player could become one of the defining storylines of the upcoming WNBA season. White’s experience and tactical brilliance offer the perfect environment for Clark to evolve into a perennial All-Star and league MVP candidate. Likewise, Clark’s dynamic playmaking and unselfishness could elevate White’s system to new heights.
Looking ahead, the Fever’s fans have every reason to be excited. The return of a championship-caliber coach, the continued development of one of the most electrifying young players in the league, and a deep, versatile roster create a compelling narrative. The Indiana Fever are not just rebuilding—they are building to win.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Indianapolis. Caitlin Clark’s journey is only just beginning, but with Stephanie White guiding the way, it promises to be a thrilling ride. Whether it’s capturing regular-season wins, making another playoff push, or contending for a championship, the Fever are ready to ignite a new era of success. And at the center of it all will be the synergy between a visionary coach and her star player.
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