Who Made Caitlin Clark’s Move to Indiana Fever Possible? Know More About 76YO Lin Dunn

Hardly anyone would argue that the Indiana Fever hit a jackpot by drafting Caitlin Clark. The 6 ft guard took center stage in the 2024 edition of the WNBA draft with her foremost ranking. However, apart from the immense talent that she possesses, there was also the vision of a veteran coach that made this association a reality. The 76-year-old GM of Indiana Linn Dunn.

The fever’s former coach is on a mission to restore its previous might. This is quite evident from her efforts. As it turns out, this is the second time in two years she was able to grab the top college basketball prospects.

The legendary Linn Dunn

Being a part of the Indiana locker room, the Hall of Famer figure knows a thing or two about what the team squad needs. Having had the privilege to draft heavyweights like Sue Bird, Dunn is well-versed in evaluating the basketball IQ of a player. Moreover, with her professional experience of having coached 11 seasons, she knows the dynamics of the franchise more than anyone. But, that is not all. The Fevers were able to clinch the 2012 WNBA title under her guidance for the very first time. Additionally, she compiled a total of 181 wins out of her 341 games. 

Additionally, Dunn can also be credited with putting up some of the best USA Women’s basketball teams as she was a part of its Selection Committee for 8 years. Not only this, but Dunn was the assistant coach of the 1992 USA Olympic team that went on to win a bronze medal in Barcelona. She capped off her coaching career in 2014 which followed a series of Hall Of Fame honors. Seemingly, she was accoladed with Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, Purdue Athletics Hall of Fame, UT-Martin Hall of Fame, Austin Peay Athletic Hall of Fame, and the University of Miami Athletic Hall of Fame.

After hanging her boots, she chose to be a part and then made her return to Indiana in 2022.

Dunn’s Indiana comeback

After 6 years at Kentucky and serving as a special assistant for 4 years, Dunn was welcomed into Indiana as its Interim General Manager. Following this, in 2023, she was the mastermind behind the arrival of Aliyah Boston from South Carolina. Although the Fevers were unable to make it to the playoffs, Boston ended up being the Rookie Of the Year and the WNBA All-Star. Consequently, she was promoted. On January 20, 2023, the decision was taken to name her the permanent General Manager.  

It will be fascinating to notice what the combination of Dunn and Clark will do for Indiana. Undeniably, both these individuals have been terrific ambassadors of the game. Fans will be hoping for them both to elevate the standards here together.