Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White, named the 2023 WNBA Coach of the Year, expressed her frustration with ongoing non-basketball related controversies overshadowing the WNBA season. On Tuesday, she defended herself against criticism regarding her response to DiJonai Carrington’s flagrant foul on Sophie Cunningham, urging people to focus on the sport.
“The hate, the fearmongering, the divisiveness that’s trying to hijack our league will not win. It won’t win,” White declared, raising her voice as she emphasized, “We are united. We are connected. We will not be divided.” She affirmed her unwavering support for her players, stating, “Everybody else can go to hell.” White ended her impassioned speech abruptly, leaving without taking audience questions.
In response to the pregame tension, Indiana performed remarkably well, shooting 59% from the field and 79% from three-point range, securing a 106-92 victory over the New York Liberty. The Fever have triumphed in seven of their last nine games, amidst various controversies.
Fever All-Star Caitlin Clark commented on White’s reaction and the team’s performance, expressing disappointment over the boos directed at White before the game. “I talked to Steph earlier, and she is human. She feels things. I’ve been through similar experiences,” Clark shared, emphasizing the team’s determination not to lose this game.
The controversy stemmed from Carrington’s foul on Cunningham, which sent the Fever guard to the ground during a breakaway layup. Cunningham attempted to retaliate but was restrained. Carrington received a Flagrant 2 foul, leading to automatic ejection. Controversy grew when a social media post accused the incident of “WHITE PRIVILEGE,” which Carrington later denied.
Cunningham has been vocal about her stance on excluding transgender women from women’s sports, sparking rallies for and against her position. Initially, White supported the referee’s decision, not perceiving the foul as intentional. Critics accused her of siding with Carrington.
Indiana Lieutenant Gov. Micah Beckwith criticized White, suggesting her dismissal. White clarified on Tuesday that she hadn’t watched the replay when she first commented and later deemed the foul “egregious” after viewing it. She assured that player safety and success are her primary concerns.
Cunningham acknowledged the external noise affecting the team but praised internal unity. She affirmed the positive relationship between White and the players, noting their mutual support.
White was previously involved in controversy regarding a hard foul on Clark earlier in the season, prompting congressional attention. Despite speculation about her job status, White emphasized her focus on basketball.
“It’s a shame we can’t discuss the great basketball being played,” White stated. “I lead with love, grace, humility, and integrity. I’m human. I might not always get it right.”