Indiana Fever Coach Makes Her Opinion Of Diana Taurasi Crystal Clear

The Indiana Fever are preparing for a primetime matchup against Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury Sunday at 3:00 EST. Head coach Christie Sides spoke on Taurasi's longevity prior to the game, with the 20-year veteran posting 16.5 points and 4.8 rebounds at 42 years old.

"She looks young. She's playing at a high level. Happy for her, happy she's doing well," said Sides via Desert Wave Media on X

Taurasi has dominated the WNBA for years, and even at the tail end of her career, she's still considered one of the most elite scorers in the game. Sides seemed to believe she's still at the top of the WNBA's tier list, sharing high praise for Taurasi.

Indiana Fever head coach Christie Sides talks to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark on May 28, 2024. © Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Sides is dealing with a young player who came into the league as a highly-anticipated rookie, much like Taurasi in 2004. The No. 1 pick from the 2024 WNBA draft, Caitlin Clark, is seen as a young superstar.

The 22-year-old had a rocky start in the league as the Fever started the season with a 2-9 record, and the rookie was shooting under 40% from the field. They've since gradually improved, and Clark is averaging 16.2 points and 6.6 assists through 19 games.

In Taurasi's first season in the league, she recorded an average of 17 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.

Following the Fever's matchup against Taurasi and the Mercury, Indiana's next game will feature a meeting between the two-time defending champion Las Vegas Aces Tuesday at 9:30 EST.