The Indiana Fever haven't played in more than three weeks, but they still made headlines during the WNBA Finals. On Friday morning, team president Kelly Krauskopf announced she is stepping down after nearly three decades at Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Hours later, the organization fired general manager and chief operating officer Amber Cox. Sources told ESPN that Stephanie White is expected to remain head coach.
The front office will look different next season, but the pressure to compete for championships remains on Caitlin Clark and the rest of the roster. Last year the Fever came within five minutes of reaching the Finals, but this season they did not make it out of the first round, losing to the three-time champion Las Vegas Aces. The team has also dealt with off-court controversies in recent years as it navigates the intense spotlight that comes with Clark.
ESPN reporters Kareem Copeland and Michael Voepel note that timing is critical. Clark is still on her rookie deal and eligible for the EPIC extension, and every season she spends on the roster will carry championship expectations. Kelsey Mitchell, who set the WNBA single-season scoring record in 2026, is an unrestricted free agent who has said she will explore her options. Ownership appears unwilling to risk another season falling short of the ultimate goal.
Sources also indicate that Krauskopf never intended to stay in the role long term, and she had told team leadership she would be leaving before the end of the regular season. Whatever the new hires do, they will face intense scrutiny, and must balance keeping Clark happy with building a competitive roster.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing