You’ve seen her on the sidelines. You’ve seen her leading teams. But what’s REALLY going on behind the scenes in the life of WNBA head coach Stephanie White?

From her surprise marriage to a woman, to her past with an ex-husband, to her multi-million dollar lifestyle and parenting journey, Stephanie’s off-court life is just as intense, layered, and unexpected as her career on the hardwood.

Many fans were surprised to discover that Stephanie White, 47, is married to a woman, living her truth openly and proudly.

Her wife, Michelle Fletcher, is a former basketball player and now works in sports administration. The two tied the knot in a quiet but emotional ceremony that was kept mostly out of the press. They’ve been called “one of the most grounded couples in women’s sports.”

“She’s my peace off the court,” Stephanie once said in a rare interview.

Their relationship, while low-key, has inspired many within the LGBTQ+ and WNBA community.

Before embracing her full identity, Stephanie was previously married to Brian Thornton, with whom she shares three children. Their relationship ended amicably, and they co-parent with mutual respect.

This part of her life, rarely discussed in public, adds a unique layer to her personal journey — from a small-town Indiana star to an openly gay head coach in pro basketball.

“Life is not a straight line,” Stephanie said. “It’s about growth.”

Stephanie has three sons, whom she often refers to as “my purpose.” Though she keeps them mostly out of the spotlight, she’s spoken candidly about how motherhood shapes her coaching philosophy.

“I raise boys and coach women. It gives me perspective on both sides of the emotional spectrum.”

One of her sons even dreams of becoming a sports analyst!

Don’t expect flashy cars or glitzy red carpets. Stephanie’s lifestyle is best described as calm, private, and deeply routine-focused — almost “strange” for someone with her fame.

She lives in a modern farmhouse-style home in Tennessee — not Los Angeles or NYC — and spends her free time gardening, hiking, or watching film tape in sweats.

“She’s a homebody who watches basketball 24/7,” says one friend. “It’s almost obsessive.”

With decades in women’s basketball as both a player and coach — including stints in the NCAA and WNBA — Stephanie White has built an estimated net worth of $2–3 million USD.

Her income sources include:

Head coaching salaries (WNBA & college)

Speaking engagements

Basketball consulting and mentorship programs

Endorsement partnerships, mostly in women’s sports development

Let’s not forget: Stephanie White was a standout player at Purdue, led her team to an NCAA championship in 1999, and went on to play in the WNBA before coaching.

She later became the first openly gay head coach to win WNBA Coach of the Year in 2023 — a huge moment for representation in professional sports.

What makes Stephanie White’s life “strange” isn’t anything scandalous — it’s how normal she keeps it, despite the pressure of being in the spotlight.

While many chase fame, she chases purpose, discipline, and authenticity.
She’s a homebody with a whistle, a mom with a playbook, and a trailblazer who isn’t trying to impress anyone — just impact the game.

Is Stephanie White married? Here is everything about her love life Stephanie White is a renowned former American basketball player, coach, and analyst with ESPN. In addition to her successful career, many fans are curious about her love life, often asking, “Is Stephanie White married?” She is not married but is in a relationship with ESPN reporter Lisa Salters. Stephanie gestures during the first quarter of the game against the Seattle Storm (L). She gestures in the third quarter of a game against the Las Vegas (R). Photo: Alika Jenner