Caitlin Clark's rookie year in the WNBA was undeniably a historic one, filled with broken records and a resurgence of interest in the Indiana Fever. However, it was also a season of change and adjustment, both on and off the court. As Clark reflects on the individuals who helped her navigate this transition, one name is conspicuously absent: her former head coach, Christie Sides.

Sides' tenure with the Fever was marked by a mix of scrutiny and significant team growth. After a rocky start to the season, with the Fever going 1-8, many questioned Sides' ability to maximize Clark's talent and make sound decisions regarding playing time. While the team rallied and improved significantly, finishing the season 20-20 and making their first postseason appearance since 2016, it wasn't enough to secure Sides' position. On October 27, 2024, the Fever announced that they had parted ways with Sides.

In a candid conversation on "Bird's Eye View with Sue Bird," Clark discussed the people who aided her in settling into her new environment. She showered praises upon former GM Lin Dunn, who drafted her and remained a constant source of support, regularly checking in and offering assistance. However, Sides' name was not mentioned among those who helped Clark adjust to the WNBA.

This omission is particularly striking, considering Sides' public support for Clark throughout the season. Sides consistently advocated for Clark, comparing her to WNBA legend Diana Taurasi and stating that Clark would "be my Rookie of the Year every day". After Clark officially secured the WNBA Rookie of the Year award, Sides posted a photo of them celebrating, expressing her pride in Clark.

Despite these public displays of support, reports suggest that the relationship between Clark and Sides may have been strained. There were visible disagreements between the two during the season, and Clark herself seemingly alluded to issues with the team's game plans under Sides. In an article in Time Magazine, Clark was quoted saying, "We never really had the best gameplans back," a statement that was interpreted as a dig at her former coach.

Following her dismissal, Sides posted a parting message on social media, stating, "Leave it better than you found it". While seemingly gracious, the message could also be interpreted as a subtle commentary on her departure.

The Fever's decision to fire Sides reflects a broader trend of coaching changes in the WNBA. However, the timing of the decision, coming after a season of marked improvement and a playoff appearance, raised eyebrows. Fever President of Basketball Operations Kelly Krauskopf acknowledged Sides' contributions but emphasized the organization's commitment to "maximizing our talent and bringing another WNBA championship back to Indiana".

As the Fever move forward, they will do so under new leadership, with Stephanie White as head coach, Amber Cox as general manager, and Kelly Krauskopf as president of basketball operations. The team hopes these changes will help unlock the full potential of Caitlin Clark and the rest of the roster.