In an exciting development for both the Indiana Fever and the city of Indianapolis, Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) has unveiled plans for a new, state-of-the-art training facility. Set to break ground in summer 2025, the $78 million Indiana Fever Sports Performance Center will serve as an exclusive hub for the team, bringing advanced sports performance technologies and amenities to the heart of downtown Indianapolis. The facility, which will span 108,000 square feet over three stories, is expected to be completed before the 2027 WNBA season and will be connected to the Virginia Avenue Parking Garage and Gainbridge Fieldhouse through a skybridge.
The new performance center is designed with the specific needs of female athletes in mind. From top-tier training equipment to recovery and wellness services, the facility will offer everything necessary to optimize the performance and well-being of the Indiana Fever players. Highlights of the center include two regulation-sized courts with abundant natural light, an extensive strength and conditioning area, as well as spaces for yoga and Pilates. To support recovery, the center will feature a spa-like environment with massage therapy, infrared light treatments, a sauna, steam room, float tanks, and multiple hydrotherapy pools. Additionally, the center will provide unique lifestyle amenities such as a hair and nail salon, childcare facilities, and a dedicated podcast and content studio, ensuring that players have everything they need to excel both on and off the court.
PS&E CEO Mel Raines emphasized that this facility will be a game-changer for the team, not only enhancing player training and recovery but also improving the fan experience. As part of the initiative to make Indianapolis a central hub for women’s sports, the center will also host exclusive fan experiences and a Fever team store. The facility will play a significant role in strengthening community outreach efforts, further connecting the team with its loyal fan base.
Currently, the Indiana Fever’s training facilities are located within Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which was renovated in 2020. While the team’s current space is already regarded as one of the top training centers in the WNBA, having a stand-alone facility will provide a more tailored environment for the Fever’s growth and success. Indiana Fever President of Basketball and Business Operations, Kelly Krauskopf, remarked that the new training center is a testament to the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting their players with the best possible resources, creating an unparalleled player experience that will elevate the team both on the court and in the community.
The construction of the facility will take place on the western portion of the former Marion County Jail site, located at the intersection of Alabama and Maryland streets. An intergovernmental land transfer from the city of Indianapolis will allow Pacers Sports & Entertainment to develop the center. The project will be spearheaded by Shiel Sexton, with Populous, a global design firm known for its work with professional sports teams, serving as the architect. According to Adam Stover, senior principal at Populous, the design will be focused on creating a world-class space that meets the unique needs of the players, coaches, and staff, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of the team.
