Stephanie White might just be heading back to Indiana for a storybook reunion, if the rumors have it true. After four years on the court as a Fever player, followed by three years as an assistant coach, she’s been a part of the team for nearly a decade. And while her current team, the Connecticut Sun, recently kicked Indiana out of the 2024 playoffs, her praise for the Fever this season sparked comeback speculation. 

It all started earlier this month when Chicago Sun-Times reporter Annie Costabile mentioned that White might be looking for a new coaching gig in 2025. “[Connecticut Sun head coach] Stephanie White isn’t expected to return to coach the Sun in 2025,” she wrote. 

Later on, Costabile claimed White had been in talks with a few teams. “The three teams remaining in picture at this point are the Sky, Fever, and Sun,” she asserted. Now, if that began the rumors of her joining Indiana, White gushing about the Fever in a resurfaced clip, only adds the fuel. 

During a 2024 Playoff interview, White was asked what she thought of the growth the Indiana Fever witnessed this year, having made it to the playoffs for the first time in 8 years. The last time they did, White was their coach. So the proud former-player replied, “I was born and raised in Indiana, and have a lot of pride in Indiana basketball, and have a lot of pride in the Fever organization being a player and a coach, and it’s exciting what’s happening with the organization and where they are.”

White admits a team is not without its challenges and is proud of the Fever for overcoming it, but also excited for what is to come next. “Most organisation have their ups and downs, certainly, but I’m proud of the girls of the Indiana Fever, excited about the future.” And to be honest, it’s not hard to imagine that kind of loyalty making its way back to where it all began. 

But do you know what makes things even more interesting? The franchise’s front office has hinted that it would consider changing coach if White becomes available, per Sports Illustrated. And there are plenty of reasons why they could. 

Know why Stephanie White could be hired by the Fever

If any team would benefit from White’s experience, it’s Indiana. To begin with, her history with the Fever runs deep. She helped lead them to the Finals in 2015 (their last ever since). That season was pure magic. 

As an assistant coach, she maximized the roster by nurturing second-year players like Layshia Clarendon, rookie Natasha Howard, and seasoned vets like Tamika Catchings. She is a builder, which is exactly what a developing new era led by rookie sensation Caitlin Clark needs.

The Sun coach has a reputation for player development. In her current team, she restored Brionna Jones to All-Star form and helped DiJonai Carrington bag the title of Most Improved Player of the Year. Hence, she can very well shape Clark’s shooting talent and Aliyah Boston’s court dominance. 

Let’s not forget that she is known for game-day adjustments. She has got experience in pressure-cooker moments just like leading the Fever to a nail-biting five-game Finals series in 2015. So, Fever could use the strategist in her. 

Last but not least, is obviously her legacy with the organization. As a player, she has secured her place in the hearts of Fever fans, which could re-energize a fan base. No one knows the team’s history as intimately as White does. As Indiana’s young squad craves a comeback, can the 47-year-old be their next chapter?