Caitlin Clark’s arrival at the Indiana Fever has transformed the team into a beacon of excitement and hope. It’s more than just numbers on a scoreboard—though there were plenty of records set during Clark’s rookie season, including the WNBA Rookie of the Year title and placements on the prestigious All-WNBA first team. It was a year that brought about a surge in attendance, skyrocketing TV ratings, increased merchandise sales, and a thriving social media following. This wasn’t just a good year; it was historic.
However, as thrilling as that season was, the playoff exit in the first round against the Connecticut Sun brought a sobering reality check. Suddenly, the Fever found themselves at a crossroads, needing to reflect, regroup, and make significant changes for the upcoming season.
Enter Kelly Krauskopf, a veteran in the league, who is back at the helm as the president of basketball and business operations. She had previously led the Fever during a period of unparalleled success from 2000 through 2018, steering the team to twelve consecutive playoff appearances. Her return signals a commitment to reinstating that level of success. Her passion echoes in her words during her introductory press conference: “We’re about winning. My plan is to return us to that level of consistency.” That’s not just a promise; it’s a manifestation of hope for fever fans, uniting past achievements with future aspirations.
This offseason, Krauskopf wasted no time assembling a robust team both on and off the court. The managerial team underwent a significant shake-up, with a new COO/GM joining forces with Coach Stephanie White—who also has a championship pedigree with the Fever. This combination of experienced leadership has already proven successful in navigating the shifting tides of WNBA dynamics.
In their strategic roster enhancements, the Fever added four experienced players through free agency and traded for a fifth, bolstering a roster that combines youthful vigor with seasoned strength. After the ups and downs of a balanced 20-20 campaign in 2024, the Fever now stands with the third-best odds to capture the WNBA title. That trajectory leaves fans with a buzzing sense of anticipation as each game approaches.
While Krauskopf brings about a new era on the court, her ambitions stretch beyond basketball. The Fever now leads the WNBA in sponsorships, having secured over 75 deals, according to SponsorUnited data. There’s an undeniable excitement building around the team—not only from the wins and losses on the court but also from the soaring interest in season tickets, combined with the announcement of a state-of-the-art practice facility expected to open in 2027. Krauskopf envisions a brand legacy akin to that of Apple. “I want this team to be a leader in the country,” she declares, infusing a sense of purpose and direction.
Krauskopf’s experience serves as a compass, guiding the Fever through both challenging and triumphant times. She has witnessed the struggles of the WNBA during its formative years, from franchises folding to ongoing battles for recognition and respect. Yet she remains hopeful, fully aware of the groundbreaking advances in visibility and appreciation for women’s sports. The buzz generated by the Fever in 2024 proved that the tables had turned. Now, the question arises: what’s next?
In a candid conversation with Sportico, Krauskopf elaborated on the Fever’s offseason moves, the vision for the team’s future, and the broader landscape of the WNBA. One compelling topic was the inclusion of franchise stars Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell in decision-making processes. “You always want to pick the brains of the players,” she stated. It emphasizes that teams are built, not just on strategy, but on a genuine connection with the players. Engaging the voices of key players isn’t just smart; it’s part of a collaborative culture that unites the team with a shared purpose.
The looming Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations created additional challenges for roster management, but Krauskopf remained undaunted. She viewed it as a unique opportunity to assemble a hungry, dedicated group of players looking to prove their worth. It’s about building a foundation of success that will, in turn, attract more talent in the years to come.
One of the most exciting announcements to come from this offseason is the ambitious plan for the Fever’s new $78 million practice facility set to launch in 2027. “We’ve outgrown our space,” Krauskopf notes, acknowledging the need for growth while remaining proud of their existing facilities. The new facility promises to offer amenities unlike anything experienced before by female athletes, with a focus on enhancing the overall player experience—mind, body, and spirit. From unique recovery areas to content creation studios, this endeavor reflects a deep commitment to the complete athlete.
As the spotlight shines brightly on the Fever, Krauskopf remains grounded in her belief that mental health is just as crucial as physical training. The league’s highest-profile players have to manage the pressures of public scrutiny, and the organization is here to provide support. With resources like a sports psychologist and mental health programs available for all players, the Fever is paving the way for a culture that prioritizes holistic well-being.
In the swirling excitement of the upcoming season, the Fever is more than just a basketball team; it’s a community, a beacon of change, and a symbol of hope for fans longing for victory and recognition. As they embark on this journey, one thing is certain—the Indiana Fever is not just aiming for success on the court; they’re building an enduring legacy that will resonate in the hearts of fans and players for generations to come.In our fast-paced world, finding balance in our consumption and lifestyle choices is essential. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the variety of options available to us, but there’s something comforting in knowing that we have a supportive community behind us. We’re not in this alone; we’re here to share this journey together, fostering a sense of unity and understanding amid the noise.
During a recent discussion, Kelly Krauskopf, the president of the Indiana Fever, shared insights about what it means to truly embody the spirit of “America’s Team.” With a mix of pride and humility, she reflected on a special event that attracted attendees from an impressive 29 states and even a few international guests. This diversity speaks volumes—not just about the Fever, but about the growing love and recognition for women’s sports across the country. It is an exciting time, one that promises to bring continued support and enthusiasm for the team and the league.
Krauskopf’s analogy of the Fever as an “Apple-type company” really resonates. She pointed out how a significant portion of their audience is comprised of new basketball fans who are discovering the Fever for the first time. It’s not just about the game anymore; it’s a broader movement capturing the hearts of those who may not have considered women’s basketball in the past. “Can we be ‘America’s Team?’” she pondered, emphasizing that this title shouldn’t be taken lightly. In acknowledging the Fever’s reach and the engagement from fans across the nation, it’s clear the Fever is on a trajectory towards broader recognition and impact.
As the Fever moves forward, the ticketing strategy mirrors this growth. Krauskopf explained how they’ve seen a dramatic shift in how tickets are sold, transitioning from group sales to a focus on individual season tickets—something that speaks to the demand and passion from fans eager to be part of the Fever’s journey. The excitement is palpable; the waitlist for new season ticket holders is at an all-time high, a testament to the rising popularity of the team.
But the goal isn’t just about ticket sales—it’s about cultivating a culture and community around the Fever, as well as contributing to the overall growth of the WNBA. Krauskopf highlighted a recent brand study revealing that the WNBA is the fastest-growing brand among adults in the U.S., even outpacing well-known consumer brands like Ben & Jerry’s. The Fever has an essential role to play within that framework, emphasizing the importance of staying competitive and relevant. Just as storied franchises like the Yankees or the Lakers have cultivated their legacy over decades, Krauskopf aims to position the Fever as a contender that fans can rally behind year after year.
There’s a buzz in the air, an enthusiasm not only from the fans but also from corporate sponsors recognizing the value of women athletes and women’s sports. Krauskopf’s vision for the Fever involves sustainable business practices, ensuring that partnerships are built for the long haul rather than just temporary excitement. “We want to create a model that benefits everyone,” she stated, envisioning new revenue streams that allow for shared success and meaningful engagement with fans.
The focus on content and storytelling is a wise strategy—there’s untapped potential in connecting with fans on a deeper level, capturing the essence of the players and the spirit of the league. It’s about more than just the games; it’s about building a narrative that resonates with people’s lives, making basketball a part of their everyday experience.
Krauskopf acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead in ensuring this momentum continues, particularly as the league’s expansion leads to more games and increased visibility for the players. “The longer you’re in the market, the more you’re part of the conversation,” she explained. Growing the Fever’s presence, and making sure that fans can enjoy multiple opportunities to see their team play, is crucial as they work towards a celebrated future.
When fans look to the upcoming season, Krauskopf promises a hungry and competitive roster poised to deliver an exciting brand of basketball. The Fever have assembled talented players who love the game and are eager to showcase their skills in a fast-paced, engaging manner. It’s hard not to feel the thrill as she describes the electricity of watching the team take the court.
On a personal note, Krauskopf is charged with excitement. Reflecting on all the hard work and perseverance that has led to this moment, she acknowledges the intertwining of pride and disbelief. For someone who has witnessed the Fever’s journey through many ups and downs, seeing the current level of enthusiasm and interest feels surreal.
In her words, “We’ve been scrapping and clawing for 25 years; it’s incredible to see the flashpoint moment we’re living through now.” The resilience of her team and the unwavering support from ownership have laid the groundwork for this feeling of opportunity. With fans rallying behind the Fever, this season isn’t just about basketball—it’s about a community coming together, celebrating the talent and passion of women’s sports in a way that’s never been seen before. And as they embark on this journey, the Fever stands ready to make its mark, impacting lives and capturing hearts all across the nation.
Image Source: Caitlin Clark @ Instagram
