“Think about a generational player in Caitlin Clark…” That’s how Stephanie White praised Clark’s exceptional abilities upon stepping back into her role as head coach for the Indiana Fever. White and Clark share a unique bond—they’ve both worn the iconic No. 22 for the franchise, White in the 2000s and now Clark in her rookie era. With Clark just as thrilled about White’s arrival, the two seem primed for an exciting partnership. Now, Clark has even highlighted one reason from White’s coaching playbook that she believes will be a game-changer for the Fever.

Stephanie White held her first introductory press conference yesterday, where she also met with several Fever players, including Caitlin Clark. After attending the conference, Clark shared her optimism about the future under White’s leadership, noting that her previous experience of preparing teams to fight with Fever would be invaluable for the team in the future.

“We know how much of a legend she is in Indiana. I think that’s really cool. Playing against her, I would say I felt like her teams always had the best scouts against us. I think that just speaks to her knowledge of the game and her way to analyze, and she clearly was on to something. Hopefully, in turn, now that she knows how to stop us, that should be a good way to know how to [help us] beat certain things as well.” Clark stated.

The Fever’s No. 22 believes that Stephanie White’s experience coaching a team that has not only faced the Fever but also handed them defeats makes her an ideal mentor for helping players improve their game. Before joining the Hoosier State, White worked with the Connecticut Sun, the same team that swept Clark’s squad in the first round of the playoffs. The Sun were also a better side in regular season with a record of 3-1.

Furthermore, the newly appointed head coach has a deep-rooted history with the Fever, having played for the franchise from 2000 to 2005 and later serving as head coach from 2015 to 2016. While Clark looks forward to positive developments ahead, White is equally excited about the journey that lies ahead for the Fever.

Stephanie White introductory conference tells Caitlin Clark’s expectations are justified

When they let Christie Sides go, President of Basketball Operations Kelly Krauskopf emphasized the goal of “maximizing our talent and bringing another WNBA championship back to Indiana.” Stephanie White appears ready to pursue that very goal, stating at her introductory press conference, “Think about the momentum moving forward, where we wanted this league to be, where we still aspire for it to go, and just embrace this moment, embrace this opportunity, continue to help this team, this franchise, be better position ourselves for success.”

White stressed the significance of leveraging Clark and Aliyah Boston as a duo, noting they were among the top pick-and-roll partnerships in the WNBA last season. “Watching both of them grow into not just the players that they are, but grow into the spotlight that they have, how they lead, how they make make their teammates better, how they lift one another up, how they handle, you know, all of the things that have come their way and all of those things that come your way are certainly earned when you’re in that position,” she said.

The 47-year-old emphasized her desire for the team to take initiative, stating they are a “high IQ team.” “You got to give them the freedom, the confidence to believe in their abilities,” White explained, reinforcing her approach. Her vision aligns closely with Clark’s hopes and expectations for the upcoming season, as White appears to have thoroughly analyzed areas for improvement and constants within the team. If only could successfully implement them, fans have to wait for the next season!