Stephanie White, coach of the Fever, will appear as a guest at the 2024–25 Indiana High School Sports Awards.

The Indiana High School Sports Awards, one of the most prestigious events celebrating high school athletics in the state, will feature a very special guest this year. Stephanie White, the head coach of the Indiana Fever and a celebrated figure in Indiana basketball history, is set to appear as the guest speaker at the ceremony. The event, which will honor the state’s top high school athletes, will take place at Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University in Indianapolis on April 27, 2025.

A Celebrated Hoosier Returns

Stephanie White’s return to Indiana basketball has been met with enthusiasm from fans and athletes alike. A native of West Lebanon, Indiana, White’s basketball journey has been nothing short of remarkable. She was named Indiana Miss Basketball in 1995 and played a pivotal role in leading Purdue University to an NCAA Championship in 1999. Her professional career included playing for the Charlotte Sting and the Indiana Fever before transitioning into coaching.

White has built an impressive resume as a coach, with previous roles at Vanderbilt University and the Connecticut Sun before making her return to the Fever in November 2024. Her dedication to the game and to developing young talent has made her an ideal choice to inspire the next generation of athletes at the Indiana High School Sports Awards.

The Significance of the Indiana High School Sports Awards

The Indiana High School Sports Awards is an annual event that recognizes the best and brightest high school athletes from across the state. The event celebrates excellence in sportsmanship, dedication, and athletic achievement. It honors athletes from fall and winter sports while also revealing the watch lists for spring sports.

This year’s ceremony will feature a number of prestigious awards, including:

Overall Male and Female Athlete of the Year
Coach of the Year
Team of the Year
Courage Award
Indiana Mr. Basketball Award (announced live at the event)

White’s participation in the ceremony underscores the importance of mentorship and guidance for young athletes. As someone who has walked the path from high school standout to professional success, she serves as a role model for aspiring athletes across Indiana.

Stephanie White’s Journey: From Indiana Miss Basketball to WNBA Coach

Stephanie White’s impact on Indiana basketball goes far beyond her current coaching position with the Fever. Her high school career at Seeger Memorial High School was legendary, culminating in her being named Indiana Miss Basketball in 1995. That honor placed her in the ranks of some of the state’s greatest basketball players.

Her collegiate career at Purdue University solidified her place in basketball history. Leading the Boilermakers to the 1999 NCAA Championship, White was known for her leadership, scoring ability, and relentless work ethic. She finished her college career with over 2,000 points and multiple Big Ten honors, making her one of the most decorated players in Purdue history.

Following her collegiate success, White played in the WNBA for the Charlotte Sting and the Indiana Fever. Her transition from player to coach was a natural one, as she possessed a deep understanding of the game and a passion for mentoring young players.

A Coaching Career Defined by Leadership and Development

After retiring as a player, White quickly found success as a coach. She started as an assistant in the WNBA before taking on roles in college basketball. As the head coach of the Indiana Fever from 2014 to 2016, she led the team to the WNBA Finals in her first season. Her ability to develop talent and build strong teams earned her recognition as one of the league’s top young coaches.

Her coaching journey took her to Vanderbilt University, where she helped rebuild the women’s basketball program. She later became the head coach of the Connecticut Sun, leading them to the playoffs and further solidifying her reputation as an elite coach. In 2024, White made her highly anticipated return to the Indiana Fever, bringing with her years of experience and a renewed focus on fostering a winning culture.

Inspiring the Next Generation

White’s speech at the Indiana High School Sports Awards is expected to be a highlight of the evening. As someone who has experienced the full spectrum of a basketball career—from a high school star to a professional athlete and successful coach—her insights will resonate deeply with the young athletes in attendance.

She is expected to emphasize themes such as perseverance, hard work, and the importance of seizing opportunities. Her message will likely highlight the role of discipline and determination in achieving success, both on and off the court.

A Must-Attend Event for Indiana’s Sports Community

The Indiana High School Sports Awards is more than just a ceremony—it is a celebration of the state’s deep-rooted sports culture. The event provides young athletes with the recognition they deserve while also inspiring them to strive for greatness in their respective sports.

Thanks to sponsorship by the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever, tickets for the event are free, making it accessible to all who wish to attend. Doors will open at 4 p.m., with the ceremony starting at 5 p.m.

With Stephanie White as the guest speaker, this year’s event promises to be one of the most memorable in recent history. Her presence not only honors the legacy of Indiana basketball but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of athletes.

For more information and to secure tickets, visit the official Indiana High School Sports Awards website.