After the team's first-round loss to the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA playoffs, the Indiana Fever underwent a major front office shakeup. Team president Kelly Krauskopf and general manager Amber Cox both departed the franchise as it looks to retool itself around former No. 1 picks Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston.
In comments obtained by Ball Don't Lie, Sophie Cunningham reacted to the departure of the two former Fever decision makers.
“There was not a lot of warning, and that's okay,” she said. “I think that's probably a good thing that you kind of keep it in-house a little bit. You know what, Kelly and Amber, they're phenomenal, phenomenal people. They cared a lot about us as players and as individuals outside the court, and so I have nothing but great things to say about them. Hopefully the fever comes in and brings people who can do a really good job for that program. I was blessed to be under Kelly and Amber, and I hope them the very best. We'll see what happens.”
The Fever announced the departure of Cox on Friday evening, paying tribute to her service to the organization.
“Through her two seasons with the Fever, Amber has helped us navigate the seismic growth of both the WNBA and our franchise,” Mel Raines, president and CEO of Pacers Sports and Entertainment (PS&E) said in the statement. “We're grateful for her contributions and wish her the very best moving forward.”
Cox's departure from the team occurred after Krauskopf announced that she was stepping down on Friday morning.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to help build and steward the Indiana Fever with the support and trust of [owner] Herb Simon,” Krauskopf said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunities, relationships, and shared accomplishments that have shaped my time with this organization. The Fever is poised for an exciting future, and I am proud to have helped lay the foundation for its continued growth and success.”