Established
2000
City
Indianapolis
League History
2000 – Present / Women’s National Basketball Association
Team History
2000 – Present / Indiana Fever
Nickname
Fever – The Indiana Fever is a professional women's basketball franchise in Indianapolis, Indiana. The team was founded in 2000 and has been part of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) since its inception. Since then, they have become one of the most successful teams in the WNBA, with multiple playoff appearances and a championship title. As such, it’s no surprise that this beloved team has developed an equally unique nickname – “Fever”! But where did this catchy moniker come from?
Believe it or not, the origin story behind “Fever” dates back to 1816 when Indiana became a state! At that time, there was much excitement around becoming part of the United States and pride for being able to call themselves Hoosiers - which is still used today by many native-born residents throughout central and southern parts of IN. This enthusiasm quickly spread across communities like wildfire resulting in what historians call "Indiana Fever."
Fast forward almost 200 years later when local officials were looking for ways to honor both past & present citizens while also promoting a new WNBA franchise; thus, "Indiana Fever" was born! It perfectly encapsulated the spirit found within state borders while simultaneously providing the perfect identity for upstart organizations at the same time. Over two decades later, the name resonates with fans far beyond the walls of Bankers Life Fieldhouse arena in downtown Indy, making them one of the most recognizable franchises in the entire league!
Championship
WNBA Championships 1
2012
Arena
2020 - Present / Hinkle Fieldhouse
2000 – 2019 / Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Owner
2000 – Present / Herbert Simon
- 2000
- 2005
- 2007
- 2009
- 2012
- 2015
- 2024
-
Fever Team Creation
The Indiana Fever team began in 2000 when the state was granted an expansion franchise to coincide with the opening of Bankers Life Fieldhouse (then Conseco Fieldhouse). In their first two seasons, they were coached by women’s basketball legends Anne Donovan and Nell Fortner. Led by center Kara Wolters, in their inaugural campaign the team posted a record of 9–23. -
The Indiana Fever won their first Eastern Conference title
In 2005: The Fever won their first Eastern Conference title, but were swept by the Sacramento Monarchs in the WNBA Finals. -
Indiana Fever secured the top seed in the East
In 2007: The Fever had their best regular season ever, finishing with a 21-13 record and securing the top seed in the East. They also had three All-Stars: Tamika Catchings, Anna DeForge and Tamika Whitmore. However, they were upset by the Detroit Shock in the conference semifinals. -
The Fever reached their second WNBA Finals
In 2009: The Fever reached their second WNBA Finals, led by Tamika Catchings and Katie Douglas, but lost to the Phoenix Mercury in five games. -
WNBA Championship 2012
In 2012, the Fever advanced to the 2012 WNBA Finals. Indiana then defeated the Minnesota Lynx, 3 games to 1. It was the Fever’s first WNBA title. -
The Fever reached their third WNBA Finals
In 2015: The Fever reached their third WNBA Finals, but lost to the Minnesota Lynx in five games. Tamika Catchings became the all-time leader in playoff rebounds and steals. -
Caitlin Clark: The Fastest Rookie Milestone
On April 15, 2024, Clark was selected as the first overall pick of the 2024 WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever. On April 27, the Fever signed Clark to their rookie scale contract. She made her regular season debut with the team on May 14 against the Connecticut Sun. Ten days later in her sixth game, Clark posted her first ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
History of the Fever
The Indiana Fever, home to some of the WNBA's greatest players, is a professional basketball team based in Indianapolis, Indiana, competes in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Founded in 2000 as one of the original eight teams to join the league, they have become one of its most successful franchises. The Fever has won three Eastern Conference championships and two WNBA titles since their inception. They are known for having WNBA's Greatest Players, such as Tamika Catchings, Katie Douglas, and Natalie Williams.
Sports Fan Products
Indiana Fever Team History: A Revealing Exploration!
In this video, explore the history of the Indiana Fever Team. From its inception to memorable moments, we uncover the intriguing story behind one of basketball's iconic teams. Explore the highs, lows, and everything in this enlightening exploration of Indiana Fever's rich history.
Unveiling The Rise Of Catlin Clark: From Iowa To Indiana Secrets Revealed!
In this Video, We Explore the journey through the remarkable rise of Catlin Clark as we unveil exclusive secrets and untold stories. From her beginnings in Iowa to her journey to Indiana, this video delves deep into the inspiring story of a basketball prodigy.
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history