WNBA Teams Undergo Significant Changes: Coaching Shifts and New League Developments

The WNBA is experiencing a period of significant change as the 2024 season comes to a close. One of the most notable developments is the flurry of coaching changes across several teams. Seven franchises have parted ways with their coaches, including the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, Connecticut Sun, Dallas Wings, Indiana Fever, Los Angeles Sparks, and Washington Mystics.

The Indiana Fever, despite finishing with a .500 record and making the playoffs, decided to move on from coach Christie Sides. They have since hired Stephanie White, who previously coached the Fever and had recent success with the Connecticut Sun. White’s hiring is seen as a strategic move to better manage the team’s young talent, including generational star Caitlin Clark and perennial All-Star Aliyah Boston.

The coaching changes reflect a broader trend of increased expectations and investment in the WNBA. With the highest price tag for expansion in league history and an upcoming CBA opt-out focused on player salaries and economic models, the stakes for coaches are higher than ever. Coaches are now expected to deliver results quickly, both on the court and in attracting and retaining top talent.

In addition to coaching changes, the WNBA landscape is also being shaped by the emergence of a new women’s basketball league called Unrivaled. Founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, Unrivaled will feature six teams with rosters filled with top WNBA players. The league aims to provide an additional competitive outlet for players before the 2025 WNBA season and has already attracted significant names, including Chelsea Gray, Arike Ogunbowale, and Jewell Loyd. Unrivaled is also making a strong push to sign Caitlin Clark with a lucrative offer that includes a $1 million salary and significant equity in the league.

The upcoming offseason will be busy, with an expansion draft to fill out the roster of the new Golden State Valkyries, the draft lottery, and free agency. These changes and developments underscore the growing interest and investment in women’s basketball, setting the stage for an exciting and potentially transformative period for the WNBA.