Fever forward Tamika Catchings has made a tremendous impact on the Fever franchise, the Indianapolis community, and the WNBA over the course of her decorated WNBA career. With today’s news that Catchings has signed her final professional contract, here are some telling quotes about the tremendous imprint she hasalready left on the Fever and Pacers organization and the greater community.

KELLY KRAUSKOPF, Fever President and General Manager

“Since the day she put on a Fever uniform, Tamika has been a consummate professional and leader of our team,” said Krauskopf, who helped launch the Fever franchise just one season before drafting Catchings. “She has been the cornerstone of our franchise, always leading by example on and off the basketball court. Through the years, Tamika has built a legacy of determination and work ethic that has permeated our organization and will remain for years to come.”

Krauskopf continued, “I am fortunate to have been on this journey with her and thrilled that she will conclude her pro career where she started – right here in Indianapolis.”

STEPHANIE WHITE, Fever Head Coach

“Tamika Catchings is the epitome of everything that is right in sports,” said Indiana coach Stephanie White who teamed with Catchings on Fever teams from 2001 to 2004.

“She is the greatest competitor the game has seen,” said White. “Her on-court numbers and accolades only tell part of the story. Tamika is an ambassador and mentor to our community with her generosity, her humility and her example. It doesn’t do justice to say she is the face of the franchise; she is the heart and soul of the Indiana Fever and the foundation for our core values. I am so fortunate to have been a part of her journey as a teammate, and now as a coach.”

LARRY BIRD, Pacers President of Basketball Operations

“Tamika has been and will continue to be an inspiration to everyone who has come in contact with her or followed her. She has overcome many obstacles to become an elite athlete that has been measured by individual and team success. MVP, gold medalist, All-Star, All-League, WNBA champion, she has done it all and with class, both on and off the court. She is not only someone all athletes should look up to, but someone everyone should look up to for what she represents through her work ethic, her charitable efforts and how she treats others. This city, this state and this franchise has been very fortunate to have a quality person such as Tamika to call our own for many years.”

LIN DUNN, Fever Head Coach Emeritus

“Tamika is the heart and the face of the Indiana Fever! She started her career in Indy, led us to the 2012 championship and she will finish her unbelievable career with the Fever!

“It’s been my great honor to coach one of the greatest to ever play our game!”

 

 

RICK FUSON, Pacers Sports & Entertainment President/COO

“I cannot think of a finer example as a human being and representative of her profession that Tamika. Her caring and giving spirit are unmatched these days and I am honored to be part in a small role in her remarkable life and career. Our city, our company and our lives are better because she is part of them. We are so fortunate to have Tamika play her final seasons and full professional career with the Fever, and we support her and thank her for her undying dedication.”

JIM MORRIS, Pacers Sports & Entertainment Vice Chairman

“Tamika Catchings is one of the most remarkable professional athletes ever to compete. Her basketball talent, her commitment to the wellbeing of young people, and the special way she handles herself and represents our city and state, are extraordinary. She is as nice, sincere, humble and genuine as anyone could be. A very special lady indeed.”

 

HERB SIMON, Pacers and Fever Owner

“Tamika Catchings has been an exceptional role model and leader, and the perfect player to help build the Indiana Fever franchise. I am proud of all that she represents, and I look forward to watching her final seasons in a Fever uniform. Pacers Sports & Entertainment has been the beneficiary of a truly great ambassador.”

 

GREG BALLARD, Mayor of Indianapolis

“Tamika is a joy to watch, both on the court with the Indiana Fever and through her work in the community. She is a fantastic representative for our city, and I am proud of all she has accomplished.”

 

 

2015 Fever Open House: You can meet Catchings and Fever head coach Stephanie White at the 2015 Fever Open House at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Sat., March 21 from 12:30 – 2:00 PM. Learn More »