Pacers Sports & Entertainment reveals plans to construct a $78 million, world-class Sports Performance Center for the Indiana Fever

In a significant development for women’s professional basketball, Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) has announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art, $78 million Sports Performance Center exclusively for the Indiana Fever. This facility, slated for completion before the 2027 WNBA season, aims to provide the Fever with world-class amenities tailored to the unique needs of female athletes.

Location and Design

The new 108,000-square-foot, three-story complex will be situated in downtown Indianapolis, at the intersection of Maryland and Alabama streets, on the site of the former Marion County Jail. Its strategic location offers convenient access for players and staff, enhancing the team’s operational efficiency. The facility will be connected to Gainbridge Fieldhouse via a skybridge, facilitating seamless integration with the team’s existing infrastructure.

Amenities and Features

The Indiana Fever Sports Performance Center is designed to meet the comprehensive needs of professional female athletes. Key features include:

• Training Facilities: Two regulation-sized basketball courts with natural light, providing an optimal environment for practice and development.
• Strength and Conditioning: A premier weight room equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to support athletic performance.
• Wellness and Recovery: A spa-like retreat offering massage therapy, infrared light therapy, sauna, steam rooms, heat studios, float tanks, and multiple hydrotherapy pools to aid in recovery and rehabilitation.
• Mental Performance Spaces: Dedicated areas designed to support mental health and wellness, recognizing the importance of psychological well-being in athletic performance.
• Lifestyle Support: Amenities such as a full-service kitchen, hydration station, yoga and Pilates area, and a private outdoor courtyard to enhance the overall experience for players.
• Additional Facilities: The center will also feature a childcare space, podcast and content production studio, hair and nail salon, and a team store, providing comprehensive support for players’ personal and professional needs.
  Fieldhouse Files

Impact on the Indiana Fever

This investment underscores PS&E’s commitment to elevating the Indiana Fever’s status within the WNBA. By providing a dedicated, top-tier training environment, the organization aims to enhance player development, attract top-tier talent, and foster a culture of excellence. The facility is expected to serve as a hub for community engagement, offering fan experiences and supporting the Fever’s community relations efforts.

Broader Implications for the WNBA

The construction of this facility sets a new benchmark for the WNBA, highlighting the increasing recognition of the importance of dedicated, high-quality training environments for female athletes. It places pressure on other teams to invest similarly in their facilities to remain competitive and attract top talent. Currently, only a few WNBA teams have dedicated practice facilities, and the Fever’s initiative may prompt others to follow suit.

Community and Economic Impact

Beyond its significance for the Fever, the new Sports Performance Center is poised to have a positive impact on the Indianapolis community. The facility is expected to create jobs during construction and operation, stimulate local businesses, and enhance the city’s reputation as a hub for professional sports. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting that it reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting women’s sports and elevating its status as a major league sports city.

The announcement of the Indiana Fever Sports Performance Center marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of women’s professional basketball. By investing in a facility that addresses the holistic needs of female athletes, PS&E demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes player well-being and performance. As the Fever prepare to move into this state-of-the-art center, the broader implications for the WNBA and the Indianapolis community are poised to be profoundly positive, setting a new standard for excellence in women’s sports.