It was a surprise to many when Stephanie White was released from her position with the Connecticut Sun, especially after leading the team to back-to-back playoff appearances. But for White, this turn of events opened an unexpected door. Parting ways with Connecticut allowed her the chance to return to a familiar place: the Indiana Fever, a team she’s both played for and coached. Amidst the excitement surrounding her return and the buzz among fans, White recently made an appearance in her NBA role.

Recently, the Fever’s newly appointed head coach, Stephanie White, was seen keeping busy in the offseason, stepping into a different role as she hosted the NBA game between the Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers. ESPNW didn’t miss the moment, sharing a clip on X with the caption, “Earlier today, Stephanie White was hired as the Fever’s new head coach. Now, she’s calling an NBA game on ESPN 👏.”

Sitting beside Ryan Ruocco, White shared her excitement over the headlines surrounding her return to the Indiana Fever. When Ruocco asked how it felt to be back, she called it a meaningful homecoming and a chance to reconnect with familiar faces like Kelly Krauskopf and Lin Dunn. For White, this move marks a significant chapter, as she’ll be leading a young, promising squad that includes rising star Caitlin Clark—a perfect opportunity to shape the Fever’s future.

Beyond her time on the court, Stephanie White has been a fixture in sports media, working as a college basketball analyst for ESPN and the Big Ten Network since 2007. She’s appeared both in-studio and on the sidelines, gaining particular recognition as a co-host of the Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament for several seasons. When White recently hosted an NBA game, Caitlin Clark had already spoken highly of her for this attribute in the past, saying, ““I think she’s done a great job of calling college games. It’s been great seeing her on NBA games. I think what she’s done is just – she’s obviously been a trailblazer.

Well, for the Fever, hiring White goes beyond a simple coaching change—they have big aspirations and see her as the key to their future success under someone who has been a part of the franchise in the past.

Indiana Fever’s bold decision to hire Stephanie White rekindles past relationship

When Stephanie White was hired, Kelly Krauskopf expressed full confidence, saying “I am confident there is no one who better understands our culture or is more equipped to lead our group of players to the next level.” White is no stranger to the Fever; she served as an assistant from 2011 to 2014 and played a crucial role in their 2012 championship win. In 2015, she stepped up as head coach after Lin Dunn’s retirement, and by 2016, White had led the team to the WNBA playoffs twice.

In fact, White’s connection to the Fever runs deep—she was a player for the team from 2000 to 2005. Now, she’s thrilled to return, this time as head coach. In a message shared by the Fever, White expressed her excitement, saying, “This franchise has and always will be committed to working every day to help deliver another WNBA title to the greatest basketball fans in the world.”

Interestingly, much of the Fever’s management team remains the same as during their 2012 championship season. Back then, Krauskopf served as general manager; today, she’s leading as President of Basketball Operations. Lin Dunn, who was head coach at the time, now brings her expertise as a senior advisor. With this familiar, experienced leadership in place, fans are hopeful that the Fever are on the path to turning their fortunes around.