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The Indiana Fever are rumored to be considering a familiar face for their next head coach: Stephanie White, currently with the Connecticut Sun. This potential move comes after the Fever recently parted ways with Christie Sides.
White's previous history with the Fever, having both played for and coached the team, makes her an obvious contender.
However, it's her early-season remarks about rookie sensation Caitlin Clark that have captured the attention of fans and may further strengthen her candidacy.
White, who led the Fever to the WNBA Finals during her first season as head coach in 2015, is well-regarded for her leadership qualities and coaching acumen.
As the Fever aim to build around standout players like Caitlin Clark, White's connection with Clark could be a significant factor in her return to Indiana.
White Defended Caitlin Clark Amid Early Criticism
During Clark's debut season in the WNBA, the young guard was not immediately embraced by everyone in the league.
Some veterans were critical of her early performances, leading to a wave of controversy. However, White was quick to defend Clark's potential and ability to adapt, providing a strong endorsement that resonated with Fever fans.
"When I'm looking at all these things that people are talking about with Caitlin Clark, it's like, guys, chill out," White said in a press conference early in the season.
"She's gonna be fine. It's two games in, are you kidding me? She's a student of the game, she got better every year, you're not going to just absorb all of the new information that's coming at you in two games, in two weeks. It takes time. And she will. I have no doubt about it."
White's thoughtful and patient approach contrasted with harsher critiques from other coaches, some of which have not aged well given Clark's remarkable Rookie of the Year campaign.
White continued her defense of Clark, explaining that it takes time to adjust and learn new systems.
"It's really hard to work on some of those things in season, so this might be an offseason thing, right?" White said.
"Let's continue to play to our strengths, let's find different ways to get the ball to our players, and then when we get time in the offseason, we'll work on that next step or next level."
A Potential Dream Team for Indiana Fever
As the Fever consider their coaching options for the future, White's early and insightful support for Caitlin Clark positions her as an ideal candidate to lead the team.
Her comments, which now seem prophetic, have aged well as Clark capped off a historic rookie season.
Fever fans are eagerly hoping that this potential pairing of White and Clark could create a dynamic duo, driving the team toward success in the coming seasons.