Stephanie White Facing Backlash for Decision in Indiana Fever Game on Tuesday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Indiana Fever carried a 17-12 record during the 2025 WNBA season into Tuesday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks. Indiana had won eight of its last 10 games, including five straight heading into the contest.
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Star guard Caitlin Clark has not played for the Fever since July 15, but the team is 5-2 in her absence, which includes the aforementioned winning streak. All-Stars Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston have stepped up for Indiana in Clark’s absence.
During Tuesday evening’s game, the Fever trailed by 11 points going into halftime, and they were down 12 heading into the fourth quarter.
Indiana Fever forward Chloe Bibby (55).© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Stephanie White Did Not Play Chloe Bibby For First Three Quarters Against Sparks
Chloe Bibby started the year with the Golden State Valkyries, but signed a seven-day deal with Indiana in late July due to several Fever injuries. She averaged 6.0 points in four games while shooting 54.5% from the three-point line in just under 10 minutes per night.
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As a result of this strong play, she was signed for the rest of the season. However, on Tuesday evening, Bibby had not subbed into the game through the first three quarters despite the team struggling offensively.
This was an unexpected decision from Fever head coach Stephanie White, who has praised Bibby for her strong play and explained in detail how she can help the team. Bibby did eventually sub into the game in the fourth quarter, but Indiana was still down double-digits.
Indiana Fever Fans Upset With Stephanie White for Chloe Bibby Decision
Indiana Fever forward Chloe Bibby (55).© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
By the time Bibby came into the game, it seemed like the contest was out of reach. Indiana eventually made a bit of a comeback, but Fever fans were upset with White for failing to play Bibby and letting the Sparks’ lead balloon up to 22 points.
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“These rotations are horrible lol where is Chloe Bibby,” one fan wrote.
“Indiana Fever and the coach looks like they don’t care today,” another posted. “Chloe Bibby should be playing since we have decided defense is not a thing today.”
“Why is steph not playing bibby?” a fan asked. “Syd clearly isn’t doing well this game . Do something maybe??”
“Bibby is RIGHT THERE😭😭😭,” another fan said.
“This is exactly the game Bibby was picked up for!” one fan pointed out. “What is going on??”
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“Don’t understand why Bibby who can give you 6-9 points off the bench is not in the game at all,” another added.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
