The Indiana Fever history began with the team’s 2000 WNBA debut and quickly developed into a story of perseverance and success. Known for their passionate fan base and talented rosters, Indiana Fever basketball built a reputation for competitive play, highlighted by multiple playoff runs and a championship, shaping the franchise as one of the league’s most respected teams.
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?
Indiana Fever Origin
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 ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Indiana Fever History
The Indiana Fever history began in 2000, when the franchise was founded as one of four expansion teams joining the WNBA. From the start, Indiana Fever basketball focused on building a strong identity through smart drafting and a commitment to defense. The team is based in Indianapolis and plays home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Its owner is Herb Simon, who also owns the Indiana Pacers.
In the 2001 draft, the Fever selected Tamika Catchings with the third overall pick. Although she missed her rookie year due to injury, Catchings would become the cornerstone of Indiana Fever basketball. Under her leadership, the Fever began making regular playoff appearances. The team finally broke through in 2009 to win its first Eastern Conference title in the Indiana Fever history, reaching the WNBA Finals but losing to the Phoenix Mercury.
In 2012, Indiana Fever history reached its high point: the Fever won their only WNBA Championship, defeating the Minnesota Lynx 3–1 in the Finals. Catchings was named Finals MVP, leading the team with strong all-around performances. The same year, they also won the Eastern Conference.
The Fever again made it to the WNBA Finals in 2015 after winning the Eastern Conference that season, under coach Stephanie White. However, Indiana Fever basketball fell short that year, losing to the Lynx. Over subsequent seasons, the team faced struggles, including missing the playoffs several years in a row. Recent years have seen rebuilding efforts, new players, and renewed optimism especially after drafting top talent and improving their record.
Fever Achievements
The most significant milestone in Indiana Fever history is their WNBA Championship win in 2012. That season, they also captured Eastern Conference titles in 2009, 2012, and 2015. These achievements stand out in Indiana Fever basketball lore as examples of peak performance and consistency in the Eastern Conference.
Beyond the championship, Indiana Fever basketball has produced outstanding individual careers. Tamika Catchings, arguably the greatest in franchise history, earned multiple All-Star, Defensive Player of Year, and All-WNBA honors. Players like Katie Douglas and Natalie Williams also contributed to the Fever’s competitive reputation. These stars helped shape Indiana Fever history, inspiring fans and setting high standards for future Fever teams.
Sports Fan Products
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history