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Stephanie White has stepped down as head coach of the Connecticut Sun, the team announced on Monday. Over her two seasons, White led the team to a 55-25 record, including a strong 28-12 season this year, and achieved two semifinal appearances, earning the WNBA Coach of the Year award in 2023.
Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti told ESPN that White's departure stemmed from considerations beyond basketball. "We parted on good terms," Rizzotti explained, "and I'm sure she'll discuss her decision in more detail later." Currently, the WNBA has seven head-coaching vacancies, with the Indiana Fever recently announcing they would part ways with their head coach, Christie Sides. Reports suggest that Indiana may look to White to step in, as she previously coached the Fever in 2015 and 2016.
White described her departure as a "professional and personal decision" and expressed gratitude toward the Sun for the opportunity. "Leaving Connecticut wasn't easy, but I feel it's best for my family and career," White shared with ESPN. She praised the organization, noting, "I didn't know if I'd get to coach again at this level, and I'm thankful for everything they've done." Reflecting on the decision, she added, "Being away from my family is tough, so professionally and personally, this feels like the right choice."
The Sun aims to select White's successor within the next few weeks, according to Rizzotti, who emphasized the importance of stability in an evolving WNBA landscape. "The league is likely to see significant roster changes, and we're looking for a leader prepared to guide us into the future," she said, underscoring the need for someone adaptable to potential roster shifts and capable of fostering long-term growth within the organization.
The Sun, who have made the semifinals for six consecutive seasons, will face significant free agency changes in 2025, with most of their roster, including All-Stars Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner, and Brionna Jones, set to hit the market. Rizzotti affirmed, "Our goal remains a championship, though we may need to take a different approach." She emphasized that the team seeks a coach who values continuity and community engagement, adding, "There's a perception of low job security in the WNBA, but that's not true here. We aim to provide stability and time for our next coach to build a championship path."