The family of Christie Sides, the former head coach of the Indiana Fever, announced her sudden passing on Sunday. Sides, who was 49, had been battling a prolonged illness in recent months. Her death has sent shockwaves through the WNBA community, where she was respected as a dedicated leader and mentor.
Sides was born on January 17, 1977, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She built a long career in women’s basketball, first as a player and later as a coach. After serving as an assistant coach with several WNBA teams—including the Chicago Sky, Indiana Fever, and Atlanta Dream—she earned her first head coaching opportunity with the Fever in 2023.
During her two seasons in Indianapolis, Sides guided the team to a 33-47 record. In 2024, she helped lead the Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016, highlighted by the breakout rookie season of Caitlin Clark. The team reached the postseason and showed significant growth under her leadership. Despite the progress, the organization parted ways with her at the end of the 2024 season.
Tributes poured in quickly after the announcement. Former players, colleagues, and fans remembered Sides for her passion, resilience, and commitment to player development. “Christie poured her heart into the game and her players,” one former assistant shared. “She fought hard every day, both on the court and off it.”
Her family described her final months as a private battle with illness, during which she remained positive and focused on family and faith. “Christie faced her health challenges with the same strength she brought to the sidelines,” a family statement read. “She touched so many lives through basketball and beyond.”
Sides leaves behind a legacy as a trailblazer for women in coaching. She was known for her strategic mind, work ethic, and ability to connect with athletes. The WNBA and Indiana Fever are expected to honor her contributions in the coming days.
Funeral arrangements are pending. The basketball world mourns the loss of a coach who gave everything to the sport she loved.