The energy in Indianapolis is off the charts as Day 11 of training camp wrapped up — and it couldn’t come at a more exciting time. With the Indiana Fever laser-focused on their season opener and the Indiana Pacers making playoff history, the city is turning into a full-blown basketball epicenter. Here’s everything you need to know from a busy day on and off the court.

Fever Locked In Ahead of Season Opener

With just days to go before their first game of the WNBA regular season, the Indiana Fever are in final prep mode. Practice intensity was high as Head Coach Christie Sides emphasized execution, communication, and tempo.

The spotlight remains squarely on rookie phenom Caitlin Clark, who’s looked more comfortable with each passing practice. Clark, who’s adjusting to the speed and physicality of the WNBA, has continued to impress with her range, court vision, and leadership — earning praise from both teammates and coaches.

“She’s coachable, fearless, and already raising our level,” said Sides. “But we’re also reminding everyone — it’s a team game. We’ve got weapons all over the floor.”

Veterans like Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston are helping set the tone, showing younger players how to carry themselves with professionalism while preparing for the grind of a full season. Boston, in particular, has been a vocal presence, encouraging consistency on both ends of the floor.

“We want to make Indiana proud this year,” said Boston. “We’re young, we’re hungry, and we’re ready to compete.”

Pacers Make History: Indy’s Weekend Double Dose of Hoops Magic

While the Fever gear up, the city is still buzzing from the Pacers’ historic playoff performance. In a thrilling Game 7, the Pacers routed the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, shooting a record-setting 67.1% from the field — the highest field goal percentage in NBA playoff history.

Tyrese Haliburton led the charge with poise and precision, while the entire squad showcased a blend of ball movement and energy that’s redefining Pacers basketball. Their win sends them to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2014.

“It feels like the city is waking up to something special,” said a Fever staffer. “You can feel it in the air — from Gainbridge Fieldhouse to every court in the city.”

Crossover Excitement: Fever and Pacers Lifting Each Other

The timing couldn’t be better. As the Pacers bring playoff fever back to Indiana, the Fever are feeding off that momentum. The two franchises have supported each other all offseason, with players attending each other’s games and sharing encouragement on social media.

“It’s inspiring,” said Clark. “What the Pacers are doing right now shows what’s possible. It’s exciting to know we’re part of something bigger.”

The Fever’s season opener against the Connecticut Sun is expected to draw a massive crowd and huge viewership. Fans are ready to see Caitlin Clark in official WNBA action, and there’s a growing sense that this season could mark a new chapter for the franchise.

What’s Next for the Fever?

Season Opener: May 14 vs. Connecticut Sun

Home Opener: May 16 vs. New York Liberty (already expected to sell out)

Key Focus: Transition defense, chemistry building, managing rookie expectations

Coach Sides and her staff are focused on keeping things grounded — reminding players to take it day by day, possession by possession. The message in the locker room is simple: “Earn everything.”

Final Thoughts: Basketball is Back in Indiana

Between the Pacers’ stunning playoff run and the Fever’s new era led by Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, Indiana basketball is having a moment. With sold-out arenas, national TV attention, and sky-high expectations, the Fever are stepping into the spotlight at the perfect time.

Day 11 showed one thing clearly: this isn’t just another season. It’s the start of something big in Indy.