Fever Rookie Johnson Compliments Coach Whites Partner

Indiana Fever rookie Raven Johnson drew laughs from reporters this week when she complimented the appearance of head coach Stephanie White's longtime partner, ESPN sideline reporter Lisa Salters, during a media availability session following practice.

The 23-year-old guard, selected 10th overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft out of South Carolina, was asked what she has learned from White so far. "She's funny," Johnson replied. "Don't tell her this, but her wife came to practice the other day, and I was like, 'Dang! You got some taste!'" Reporters burst into laughter at the remark, which highlighted Johnson's quick adaptation to her new professional surroundings.

White and Salters have been partners since at least 2016 and share a home in Nashville with a blended family that includes White's three sons from a previous marriage and Salters' adopted son. The couple has been open about their relationship, including taking time off in spring 2025 due to an illness in Salters' family.

Johnson, a two-time national champion with the South Carolina Gamecocks under coach Dawn Staley, has impressed on the court during the Fever's preseason. In three exhibition games, she averaged strong defensive...