Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White is preparing to undergo medical evaluation and treatment for a back injury reportedly sustained in a recent household accident involving a kitchen incident. The veteran coach, who led the Fever through a challenging yet resilient 2025 WNBA season, suffered the injury while at home. Details remain limited, but sources close to the situation describe it as a non-contact mishap—possibly related to lifting or a sudden movement while preparing a meal—that resulted in significant lower back strain. White has been a pillar of strength for the team, guiding them to the semifinals despite widespread player injuries, including to star guard Caitlin Clark.
The Fever organization confirmed that White will step back temporarily from day-to-day coaching duties to prioritize recovery. Assistant coaches, including those who have filled in during past absences, are expected to handle immediate responsibilities as the team enters the offseason. White’s injury comes at a time when the franchise is focused on roster adjustments and preparations for the 2026 season, with key players like Clark, Aliyah Boston, and others gearing up for full health returns.
White, a former WNBA player and Purdue standout, has a history of overcoming personal and professional challenges. She previously sat out time as a player due to injuries and has managed team adversity with poise. Fans and players have expressed support, wishing the coach a speedy recovery.
The Fever have not released a detailed timeline for White’s return, emphasizing that her long-term health remains the priority. The team reiterated their confidence in the coaching staff to maintain momentum during this period.
White’s leadership was instrumental in 2025, earning praise for adapting to multiple season-ending player injuries while pushing Indiana deep into the playoffs. This latest setback serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of health in sports, even off the court.
The organization has wished Coach White well in her recovery, confident she will return stronger as they build toward future success in the WNBA.
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