The Indiana Fever have made significant changes this offseason, reshaping their coaching staff and roster in hopes of a stronger season.
The first major shift came with the hiring of Stephanie White as the team’s new head coach. White, who previously led the Fever from 2014 to 2016, brings experience and a fresh perspective to the franchise.
Fever land Sophie Cunningham in blockbuster trade
Just months after White’s return, Indiana took another big step by acquiring guard Sophie Cunningham in a multi-team trade. The deal, which also involved the Phoenix Mercury and Dallas Wings, sent former No. 2 overall pick Satou Sabally from Dallas to Phoenix.
In return, the Wings received point guard Ty Harris, the rights to Mikiah “Kiki” Herbert Harrigan, and forward NaLyssa Smith from the Fever. Indiana also sent the No. 8 pick in this year’s draft to Dallas but gained Cunningham and the No. 19 pick.
Cunningham, known for her energy and perimeter shooting, is expected to bring toughness to Indiana’s backcourt. However, beyond her on-court skills, she has already made headlines for her excitement about joining forces with rookie star Caitlin Clark.
Shortly after arriving in Indiana, Cunningham playfully dubbed Clark “Taylor Swift,” likening herself to pop star Sabrina Carpenter as a supporting figure.
“I told people upstairs I will be her Sabrina Carpenter any day to her Taylor Swift,” Cunningham said, highlighting Clark’s rising stardom and the attention she brings to the team.
Head coach Stephanie White echoed that sentiment, further fueling the comparison.
“She’s incredibly humble, understands the big picture, and manages it all so gracefully. She’s very much Taylor Swift 2.0,” White said.
The Fever’s strategic moves this offseason signal their commitment to building a competitive team. With White leading the way and new additions like Cunningham complementing Clark, Indiana is setting the stage for an exciting season. Fans will be watching closely to see if these changes can propel the Fever back into playoff contention.
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