One of the most beloved and important women in Indiana Pacers history has sadly passed away.
On Wednesday, the family of Nancy Leonard announced that Leonard passed away last night following steadily declining health. She was 93 years old and widely considered the “team matriarch” of the Pacers organization.
Advertisement
“With sorrow, the children of Bob and Nancy Leonard announce the peaceful passing of our mother last night,” the family said in a statement. “Her health steadily declined in recent months, but her will to get the most out of life never wavered as evidenced by her insistence on attending Pacers games this past season at 93 years young. She will always be the Pacers #1 fan.”
Nancy Leonard was the wife of Pacers legendary head coach Bobby “Slick” Leonard, who led the team to all three of their ABA championships and into their NBA transition in 1976. She served as the team’s assistant general manager from 1976 to 1980, handling administrative duties while Bob was the head coach and GM. She helped organize a telethon to raise money to help keep the team in Indiana during financial struggles in the late-70s.
In 1983, Herb and Mel Simon bought the Pacers and kept it in Indiana. In a statement, the Simon family offered their condolences to Leonard and stated that the team wouldn’t be where it is today without her.
Advertisement
“We are heartbroken to hear of Nancy Leonard’s passing. Quite simply, we would not be here without her,” the Simon family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment said in a statement. “From the earliest days of the franchise, Nancy poured her heart and soul into the team, not just as the wife of Slick Leonard, but as a female trailblazer who rallied the community when we needed it the most.”
A tremendous legacy
Even in her 90s, Leonard continued to support the team. She attended several games during the team’s 2025 NBA Finals run and is respected by players, alumni and fans alike.
Advertisement
“The First Lady of Indiana basketball,” Pacers superstar Tyrese Haliburton posted on X. “Before every game, I knew I could count on a wink and a smile behind the bench. There is no Pacers basketball without Nancy Leonard. Can’t wait to see the day her name is in the rafters where it belongs. RIP to a legend and a beautiful soul.”
May 27, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) stands on court during the second quarter against the New York Knicks of game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
“God bless the First Lady of the Indiana Pacers 🙏 basketball in the Hoosier state wouldn’t be the same without you,” a Pacers fan wrote on Instagram.
Advertisement
“Thank you for your years of dedication. Thank you for your friendship w my father. RIP 🙏 Prayers to the family,” wrote another.
“If there’s anybody deserving of a statue in front of Gainbridge it’s Slick and Nancy,” a third declared.
Our hearts go out to Nancy Leonard’s family and loved ones.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.