As the Indiana Fever prepared to face the Golden State Valkyries on June 19, 2025, news emerged that head coach Stephanie White would not be on the sidelines. This marks the second time this season White has been absent, previously missing the June 7 game against the Chicago Sky.
The team has announced that White is away due to personal reasons. Assistant coach Austin Kelly will serve as acting head coach, as he did during the Fever's previous game against the Sky, which they won 79-52. It is unclear when White will return to the team.
While the exact nature of White's absence remains undisclosed, it is believed to be connected to a family health matter involving Lisa Salters, White's partner. Salters, a well-known ESPN sideline reporter, also recently missed several games of the NBA Finals. During a broadcast, Mike Breen of ABC/ESPN mentioned that Salters' mother was dealing with serious health issues. White and Salters have been together since at least 2016 and are raising a blended family of four sons.
White addressed her earlier absence, telling the media, "You know, I'm doing all right. It's helpful that we have such a great group, pouring into me and helping give me strength... You know, our family is working through a hard time right now. And no matter what, I'm gonna be where my feet are, but I'm really thankful for this group."
Despite White's absence, the Fever have been gaining momentum. They hold a 6-5 record and have won four of their last five games. The team recently secured an 88-71 victory over the Connecticut Sun, earning them a spot in the Commissioner's Cup final.
Caitlin Clark has been instrumental in the Fever's recent success. After recovering from a quadriceps injury, she delivered a 32-point performance against the New York Liberty. Veteran Sophie Cunningham has also stepped up, notably defending Clark during an on-court altercation.
White's leadership has been vital to the Fever's progress. The team is hosting the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis.
In White's absence, assistant coach Austin Kelly will once again take the reins. The team has expressed confidence in Kelly's ability to lead, noting the Fever's win against the Sky earlier this month with Kelly as acting head coach.
