In Indianapolis, the passion for basketball is as deeply embedded as the state’s identity itself. Recently, the Indiana Pacers celebrated winning the Eastern Conference title, prompting head coach Rick Carlisle to echo a famous sentiment: “In 49 other states, it’s just basketball. But this is Indiana.” This phrase holds more truth now than ever, as the state feels like the epicenter of the basketball world.
Indiana—a state renowned for its basketball legacy—has produced legends like Larry Bird and Oscar Robertson. It’s home to Bob Knight’s 1975-76 Indiana team, the last NCAA Division I men’s team to record an unbeaten season. It was the backdrop for the iconic film “Hoosiers” and cheered for Reggie Miller during his illustrious career. Now, it’s witnessing the ascent of Caitlin Clark, a star in the women’s game poised to elevate the WNBA’s Fever to potential championship glory.
And, if that’s not enough, the Pacers have returned to the NBA Finals. This coming Wednesday night, Indianapolis will host Game 3 of the NBA Finals against Oklahoma City, with the series currently tied. While people across the country will watch with interest, in Indiana, it’s more of an experience to be felt and celebrated.
Rick Carlisle notes the parallel success of both the Pacers and the Fever, pointing out the growing enthusiasm and saying, “Both teams are teams that are working their way up and getting better. The level of interest is high. We’ve always had great fans here.” Carlisle, now in his third stint in Indiana, sees this period as one of heightened excitement.
Banners reading “Yes, ‘Cers” are scattered across the city, and Pacers conversations dominate places like St. Elmo Steak House. Pacers and Fever owner, Herb Simon, a Hall of Famer and the long-serving NBA team governor, is credited by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for fostering this thriving basketball environment in Indianapolis.
Silver acknowledges Simon’s contributions, saying, “As David Stern used to say, ‘We’re going to keep him at it until he gets it right.’ And here we are,” praising Simon’s perseverance and commitment. The upcoming WNBA All-Star game, set to take place in Indianapolis, adds another feather to the city’s already plush basketball hat.
Currently, Indianapolis is engulfed in what can be termed as Pacersmania and Caitlinmania. Clark’s anticipated return from injury could prove pivotal for the Fever as they gear up to play the New York Liberty. This creates a thrilling weekend roster: the Pacers featuring in the NBA Finals across multiple days, coupled with Clark’s possible return against last year’s WNBA champions.
Clark, who ignited excitement with her courtside celebrations during the Pacers’ Eastern Conference triumph, exemplifies her significance to the sport. Her presence has energized the WNBA, drawing substantial crowds to Fever games. With Clark’s injury, national viewership of WNBA games has noticeably dipped, highlighting her impact.
Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, who shares a close camaraderie with Clark, speaks highly of her, both as a player and a person, emphasizing her positive influence on the sport and the Fever’s standing as “rock stars.” This undeniable excitement feeds into a broader renaissance of basketball fervor in Indianapolis.
Throughout football season, Colts’ blue and white gear might gain prominence, but basketball remains the passion that binds Hoosiers year-round. The infectious zeal surrounding their teams showcases Indiana’s undying commitment to basketball excellence.
As the city prepares to host Game 3 of the NBA Finals, Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith captures the anticipation best, looking forward to the raucous atmosphere that will define a memorable night: “Honestly, I can’t wait to see how rocking and loud this place is. It’s going to be a special, special moment for sure.” In Indiana, indeed, basketball is not just a game; it’s a way of life.