Devastating news :Indiana Fever Owner Herb Simon Passes Away at 89.
**Indiana Fever Owner Herb Simon Passes Away at 89**
The Indiana sports community is in mourning following the passing of Herb Simon, the longtime owner of the Indiana Fever and the Indiana Pacers, at the age of 89. Simon, a revered figure in the sports and business world, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his teams, the city of Indianapolis, and the growth of professional basketball.
### A Visionary Owner
Herb Simon, who co-founded the Simon Property Group, became involved in professional sports ownership when he and his brother Melvin purchased the Indiana Pacers in 1983. In 2000, Simon expanded his influence in basketball by establishing the Indiana Fever, one of the founding teams of the WNBA. Under Simon’s leadership, the Fever became a model franchise in women’s basketball, winning the WNBA Championship in 2012 and fostering a strong culture of competitiveness, integrity, and community engagement.
Simon’s commitment to his teams and players extended far beyond the court. He was known for his hands-on approach to ownership and his dedication to ensuring that his franchises reflected the values of Indianapolis. He prioritized creating an environment where both the Pacers and Fever could thrive as contenders, while also contributing to the growth of basketball on a national level.
### A Lifelong Commitment to Indiana Sports
Herb Simon’s contributions to Indiana sports went far beyond financial investment. He was an active and beloved figure within the Indianapolis community, continuously supporting initiatives to promote youth sports, education, and community development through both the Pacers Foundation and Fever Cares. His philanthropic efforts helped transform the lives of countless individuals in Indiana, making him a respected leader not only in sports but also in the broader civic and business communities.
Simon’s leadership was instrumental in keeping professional basketball thriving in Indianapolis, particularly during challenging times. His efforts to secure the future of the Pacers in Indianapolis during times of financial uncertainty earned him widespread admiration. In addition, his advocacy for the WNBA and women’s sports helped raise the profile of the Fever and women’s basketball in general, creating lasting opportunities for female athletes.
### A Lasting Legacy
Throughout his tenure as owner of the Indiana Fever, Herb Simon was committed to the success and sustainability of women’s basketball. His contributions helped build a foundation that will continue to support the franchise for years to come. The Fever’s 2012 WNBA Championship, led by Tamika Catchings, remains one of the proudest moments in the team’s history and is a testament to Simon’s belief in investing in talent and fostering a winning culture.
Tamika Catchings, a Hall of Famer and one of the Fever’s most iconic players, expressed her condolences and gratitude for Simon’s influence on her career. “Herb Simon believed in women’s basketball long before it became popular, and he always supported us like family,” Catchings said in a statement. “He was a champion for the Fever and for Indianapolis. His legacy will live on in all of us who had the privilege to know him.”
### Tributes from Across the Sports World
News of Herb Simon’s passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from players, coaches, and colleagues throughout the sports world. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement calling Simon “one of the most passionate and dedicated owners in the history of the NBA and WNBA.” Silver added, “Herb’s love for his teams and his community was evident in everything he did. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will be felt for generations.”
Fever players, both past and present, also took to social media to express their sorrow and appreciation for Simon’s legacy. Current Fever forward NaLyssa Smith posted, “Thank you for everything, Mr. Simon. Your commitment to us never wavered, and we are all grateful to be part of the family you built.”
### Looking Forward
As the Indiana Fever prepare to move forward without their beloved owner, the organization is expected to honor Herb Simon’s legacy throughout the upcoming season. While Simon’s passing marks the end of an era, his vision and impact on Indiana basketball will remain deeply ingrained in the franchise’s culture. The Fever, along with the Pacers, will continue to be a pillar of Indiana sports, thanks in no small part to Simon’s unwavering commitment to their success.
Herb Simon’s influence transcended sports, shaping the culture of Indianapolis and leaving a profound mark on professional basketball. His passion for the game, his teams, and his community will be remembered for years to come.
### Conclusion
Herb Simon’s passing is a significant loss for the world of sports and the city of Indianapolis. As the owner of the Indiana Fever and Pacers, Simon’s vision, leadership, and generosity helped build two of the most respected franchises in basketball. His legacy will be carried on by the teams, players, and fans he touched during his remarkable life.
