{"id":12983,"date":"2024-11-02T03:03:08","date_gmt":"2024-11-02T03:03:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/?p=12983"},"modified":"2024-11-02T03:03:08","modified_gmt":"2024-11-02T03:03:08","slug":"breaking-indiana-fever-offers-lisa-bluder-the-biggest-contract-in-wnba-history-to-be-fever-coach","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/?p=12983","title":{"rendered":"Breaking: Indiana Fever Offers Lisa Bluder The BIGGEST Contract in WNBA History To Be Fever Coach!"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3><\/h3>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Indiana Fever Offers Massive Deal For Lisa Bluder: A Game-Changing Move<\/h3>\n<p>In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the WNBA, the Indiana Fever has officially extended an unprecedented contract offer to Lisa Bluder, the highly respected head coach of the University of Iowa women\u2019s basketball team. This historic deal marks a significant investment in the Fever\u2019s future as they seek to revitalize their franchise and compete for championships.<\/p>\n<p>The Indiana Fever, a team that has experienced its share of ups and downs over the years, is clearly making a statement with this ambitious hiring decision. Bluder, who has amassed an impressive record during her tenure at Iowa, is widely regarded as one of the top coaches in women\u2019s basketball. Her coaching acumen, coupled with her ability to develop young talent, makes her an ideal candidate to lead the Fever into a new era.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\">\n<p>While the exact figures of the contract remain undisclosed, sources indicate that this offer surpasses any previous coaching contract in WNBA history, reflecting the Fever\u2019s commitment to excellence. This significant financial investment highlights the franchise\u2019s desire to build a competitive team that can attract top talent and return to playoff contention.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\">\n<p>Lisa Bluder has been a transformative figure in college basketball, leading the Hawkeyes to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and consistently developing players who excel at the next level. Known for her innovative offensive strategies and emphasis on player development, Bluder\u2019s coaching philosophy aligns well with the Fever\u2019s goal of fostering a dynamic and competitive environment.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984496.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s615b\/0_NCAA-Womens-Basketball-Tournament-Albany-Regional.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 458px) 458px, 1200px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984496.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s458b\/0_NCAA-Womens-Basketball-Tournament-Albany-Regional.jpg 458w,https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984496.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s1200e\/0_NCAA-Womens-Basketball-Tournament-Albany-Regional.jpg 1200w\" alt=\"Head coach Lisa Bluder of the Iowa Hawkeyes gestures to her team during a game against the Colorado Buffaloes during the Sweet Sixteen round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament held at MVP Arena on March 30, 2024\" data-inline-image=\"true\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-inread\"><ins id=\"982a9496-f411d01fd7304c8049700933d4d4edb8-2-7791\" class=\"982a9496\" data-key=\"f411d01fd7304c8049700933d4d4edb8\"><ins id=\"982a9496-f411d01fd7304c8049700933d4d4edb8-2-7791-1\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7266710804606728\" data-ad-slot=\"3892103736\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"filled\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_12_host\"><\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/ins><\/ins><\/div>\n<p>For Bluder, this offer represents not only a significant career opportunity but also a chance to make history as one of the few successful college coaches to transition into the WNBA. If she accepts, it could lead to new challenges and the chance to influence the game on a broader scale.<\/p>\n<p>Should Bluder accept the offer, it could have profound implications for the Fever\u2019s future. Her experience and leadership could help reshape the team\u2019s identity, attracting top talent and perhaps even transforming their fortunes on the court. As the Fever look to rebound from a challenging season, Bluder\u2019s expertise might be just what they need to ignite a resurgence.<\/p>\n<p>The Indiana Fever\u2019s offer to Lisa Bluder is more than just a contract; it\u2019s a bold statement of intent as they aim to revitalize their franchise. With her track record and vision, Bluder has the potential to lead the Fever into a new chapter of success, captivating fans and elevating the team\u2019s profile in the competitive landscape of women\u2019s basketball. As negotiations unfold, all eyes will be on this transformative opportunity that could redefine the future of the Indiana Fever.<\/p>\n<h1 class=\"section-theme-background-indicator publication-font\">Indiana Fever appoint Lisa Bluder, Natasha Howard signs \u2013 Caitlin Clark\u2019s dream scenario<\/h1>\n<p class=\"sub-title\">The Indiana Fever face an important few months in the off-season as they aim to build around star player Caitlin Clark, starting with the decision of who their next coach should be.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984449.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s615\/0_Kansas-State-v-Iowa.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984449.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s508\/0_Kansas-State-v-Iowa.jpg 508w, https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984449.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s810\/0_Kansas-State-v-Iowa.jpg 810w\" alt=\"Guard Caitlin Clark #22 of the Iowa Hawkeyes and head coach Lisa Bluder react during the closing moments of their match-up against the Kansas State Wildcats at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on November 16, 2023\" \/><br \/>\n<span class=\"caption\"><br \/>\nA reunion with Lisa Bluder could be on the cards for Caitlin Clark<\/span><span class=\"credit\">\u00a0(Image: Getty Images)<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Caitlin Clark could be returning to a very different-looking Indiana Fever next year.<\/p>\n<p>The 22-year-old enjoyed\u00a0a highly successful debut season\u00a0in the\u00a0WNBA\u00a0on a personal level, winning the Rookie of the Year award and coming fourth in the MVP voting. But the Fever suffered an early exit in their first playoffs appearance since 2016 after a rollercoaster regular season.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019ve already started preparations for 2025 by\u00a0sacking head coach Christie Sides, who was accused of failing to get the most out of their star player\u2019s potential. Her replacement could address that issue, while there\u2019s other factors that might unfold in the coming months which would make for a dream sophomore year for\u00a0Clark.<\/p>\n<h3>Lisa Bluder appointed<\/h3>\n<p>Speculation is already rife about who the Fever could pursue as their next coach. The Connecticut Sun\u2019s Stephanie White has emerged as a top contender.<\/p>\n<p id=\"amp-readmore-target\">The 2023 Coach of the Year of course has a history with the Fever, having spent four of her five playing seasons with them and returning to lead them to only their second WNBA Finals appearance in 2015.<\/p>\n<p>However, the task at hand for the Fever now is to build the team around Clark. And who better placed to do that than her college coach Lisa Bluder?<\/p>\n<p>The 63-year-old nurtured Clark\u2019s blossoming talent for the Iowa Hawkeyes, during which time they reached two NCAA national championship games. Bluder retired in May \u2013 but no opportunity would be more tempting than a reunion.<\/p>\n<h3>Natasha Howard returns<\/h3>\n<p>Since her first stint at the Fever, Natasha Howard has transformed into a completely different player. She\u2019s a three-time WNBA champion from her spells with the Minnesota Lynx and Seattle Storm.<\/p>\n<p>And she was the Defensive Player of the Year in 2019. Her return could be the perfect storm coupled with Clark\u2019s emergence.<\/p>\n<p>Howard would not only offer much-needed reinforcement at 4, but she\u2019d also provide back-up in defence. She\u2019s already made it clear she won\u2019t be returning to the Dallas Wings, so the door is very much open.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33987309.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s615b\/0_Olympiacos-v-CBK-Mersin-FIBA-EuroLeague-Women.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 458px) 458px, 1200px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33987309.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s458b\/0_Olympiacos-v-CBK-Mersin-FIBA-EuroLeague-Women.jpg 458w,https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33987309.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s1200e\/0_Olympiacos-v-CBK-Mersin-FIBA-EuroLeague-Women.jpg 1200w\" alt=\"Natasha Howard of CBK Mersin in action during the FIBA EuroLeague Women basketball match between Olympiacos and CBK Mersin at Peace and Friendship Stadium in Piraeus, Greece on October 23, 2024\" data-inline-image=\"true\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"caption\">Natasha Howard is the ideal free agent signing for the Fever<\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"credit\">(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Kelsey Mitchell stays<\/h3>\n<p>Right at the top of the Fever\u2019s agenda should be tying Kelsey Mitchell down to a new deal. She was their second-leading scorer in the 2024 season, averaging 19.2 points per game.<\/p>\n<p>The two-time All Star is part of the furniture after seven years with the side, and keeping a hold of her will only be a boost for Clark and Co. It remains to be seen if they can do so.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cShe\u2019s extremely important to the success of this, our future,\u201d Fever President of Basketball Operations Kelly Krauskopf said recently. \u201cWe intend to have lots of conversations and make sure she knows that, but I think she does know that.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984574.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s615b\/0_Washington-Mystics-v-Indiana-Fever.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 458px) 458px, 1200px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984574.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s458b\/0_Washington-Mystics-v-Indiana-Fever.jpg 458w,https:\/\/i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk\/incoming\/article33984574.ece\/ALTERNATES\/s1200e\/0_Washington-Mystics-v-Indiana-Fever.jpg 1200w\" alt=\"Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever celebrates a basket during the second half of a game against the Washington Mystics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 19, 2024\" data-inline-image=\"true\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"caption\">NaLyssa Smith [L] has struggled to gel with Clark and could be used as a makeweight in any trades<\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"credit\">(Image: Getty Images)<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Salary cap increase<\/h3>\n<p>There\u2019s no question that Clark is worth well more than her current five-figure salary. According to Sports Illustrated, it stands at just $76,535 (\u00a358.78k).<\/p>\n<p>The Women\u2019s National Basketball Players Association\u2019s decision to opt out of the Collective Bargaining Agreement is set to see the current salary cap of $1.46 million per team skyrocket next year, with a new agreement based on league revenues set to be struck.<\/p>\n<p>While Clark knows she needn\u2019t worry about her pay packet with sponsorships raining in and her star only rising, a new contract with a wage which reflects her value is only fair and will serve as further encouragement for her to spur the Fever on to a first WNBA title since 2012.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Indiana Fever Offers Massive Deal For Lisa Bluder: A Game-Changing Move In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the WNBA, the Indiana Fever has officially extended an unprecedented &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":12984,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12983","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12983","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12983"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12983\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12985,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12983\/revisions\/12985"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/12984"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12983"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12983"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usdailys.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12983"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}