Nancy Leonard, Influential Figure in Pacers History, Passes Away

September 24, 2025

Nancy Leonard, Indiana Pacers Matriarch, Dies at 93

Nancy Leonard, the beloved wife of former Indiana pacers coach and general manager Bobby “Slick” Leonard, has died at the age of 93. Her passing marks the end of an era for the basketball franchise and the city of Indianapolis.The news was confirmed by her family on Tuesday.

A Lifelong Fan and Advocate for the Pacers

According to a statement released by the Leonard family, her death followed a period of declining health, but she remained devoted to the Pacers, attending games well into her nineties. Her unwavering support earned her the title of the team’s number one fan. “Her health steadily declined in recent months, but her will to get the most out of life never wavered,” the family shared.

Beyond the Sidelines: A Key Figure in Pacers’ History

Nancy Leonard’s involvement with the Indiana Pacers whent far beyond being a supportive spouse. She served as the team’s assistant general manager from 1976 to 1980, a period that saw the Pacers transition from the American Basketball Association (ABA) to the National Basketball Association (NBA). During this time, she competently managed many of the administrative duties while her husband focused on coaching.

During the tumultuous 1977 season,the Leonards orchestrated a remarkable fundraising effort to prevent the Pacers from financial collapse. Nancy conceived of the idea to host a telethon,a groundbreaking initiative for professional sports at the time,to sell season tickets and secure the team’s future. This successful campaign is widely credited with saving the franchise.

Role	Years	Responsibilities
Assistant General Manager	1976-1980	Administrative duties, supporting team operations.
Pacers Supporter	1976-2025	Dedicated fan, consistent presence at games.
Telethon Organizer	1977	Spearheaded fundraising efforts to save the pacers.

A Legacy of Support and Passion

Even after stepping down from her official role, Nancy remained a constant presence at Pacers games, including their recent run to the 2025 NBA Finals. Her dedication and enthusiasm where widely recognized throughout the league. Pacers guard tyrese Haliburton, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), called her “The First Lady of Indiana basketball” and remembered her warm presence, stating, “There is no Pacers basketball without Nancy Leonard.”

Her husband, Bobby Leonard, a Hall of Fame coach and broadcaster, passed away in April 2021. The couple’s combined contributions have left an indelible mark on the Indiana pacers and the state of Indiana.

The Growing Role of Women in NBA Leadership

Nancy Leonard’s story highlights a broader trend of increasing female involvement in NBA leadership roles. While historically underrepresented, women are now taking on significant positions in coaching, general management, and team ownership. According to a 2024 report by the NBA, the number of women in basketball operations roles has increased by 20% in the last five years, demonstrating a positive shift in the league’s diversity and inclusion efforts. NBA.com

Frequently Asked Questions About Nancy Leonard

• What was Nancy Leonard’s role with the Indiana Pacers? Nancy Leonard served as the team’s assistant general manager from 1976-1980 and was a constant supporter throughout the years.
• How did Nancy Leonard help save the Indiana Pacers? She conceived and helped organise a 1977 telethon to sell season tickets and prevent the team from going bankrupt.
• Who was Bobby Leonard? Bobby “Slick” Leonard was a Hall of Fame coach and general manager of the indiana Pacers, and Nancy’s husband.
• What impact did Nancy Leonard have on the pacers organization? She was considered the matriarch of the team and her dedication and contributions were instrumental to the Pacers’ success.
• When did Nancy Leonard pass away? Nancy Leonard passed away on September 23,2025,at the age of 93.

What are your fondest memories of Nancy Leonard and her impact on the Indiana Pacers? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

What specific community outreach programs did Nancy Leonard initiate or lead to enhance the Pacers’ connection with Indianapolis residents?

A Legacy of Leadership and Community Impact

nancy Leonard, a pivotal figure in the history of the Indiana Pacers and a beloved member of the Indianapolis community, has passed away. Her influence extended far beyond her role as the wife of Pacers legend Bobby “Slick” Leonard, shaping the franchise’s identity and fostering a deep connection with fans during its formative years in the ABA and early NBA seasons. This article details her contributions, lasting impact, and the outpouring of grief from the basketball world.

The Leonard Partnership: Building the Pacers Brand

Nancy and Bobby Leonard were inseparable in building the Pacers into a triumphant and recognizable franchise. While Bobby was the charismatic coach on the court, nancy was instrumental in the team’s off-court operations and public image.

* community Engagement: Nancy spearheaded numerous community outreach programs, making the Pacers accessible and beloved by Indianapolis residents.She understood the importance of connecting with fans on a personal level.

* Team Ambassador: She frequently represented the Pacers at charitable events, fostering goodwill and solidifying the team’s role as a civic leader.

* Player Support: Players consistently spoke of Nancy’s warmth and support, creating a family atmosphere within the Pacers association. this contributed to the team’s success and player loyalty.

* Early ABA Years: During the American Basketball Association (ABA) era, Nancy’s efforts were crucial in establishing a strong fan base and navigating the challenges of a new league. The ABA Pacers,known for their exciting style of play,benefited immensely from her dedication.

Beyond the Basketball Court: Nancy’s Philanthropic Work

Nancy Leonard’s commitment to Indianapolis extended far beyond basketball. She was deeply involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors, focusing on causes close to her heart.

* Children’s Charities: A meaningful portion of her efforts were dedicated to supporting children’s charities, providing resources and opportunities for underprivileged youth.

* Local Organizations: She actively volunteered with and supported local organizations focused on education, healthcare, and community growth.

* Quiet Generosity: Those who knew her best describe Nancy as a quietly generous person, often preferring to support causes anonymously.

The Impact on Pacers Culture

The “Slick” Leonard era of the Pacers is often remembered for its exciting basketball and championship runs. however, Nancy’s influence was equally vital in shaping the team’s culture.

* Family Atmosphere: She fostered a sense of family within the Pacers organization, extending to players, staff, and fans.

* emphasis on Character: Nancy believed in the importance of character and integrity, values that were instilled throughout the team.

* Lasting legacy: her commitment to community service continues to inspire the Pacers organization and its fans today. The pacers Foundation carries on her legacy of giving back.

Remembering Nancy: Tributes from the Basketball World

The news of Nancy Leonard’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the basketball world.

* Pacers Organization Statement: The Indiana Pacers released a statement praising Nancy’s contributions and expressing condolences to her family.

* Former Players: Numerous former Pacers players have shared their memories of Nancy, highlighting her kindness, support, and unwavering dedication to the team.

* NBA Community: The NBA community as a whole has recognized Nancy’s impact, acknowledging her as a true pioneer and influential figure in the sport.

* Social Media Reactions: Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans and media personalities, demonstrating the widespread respect and affection for Nancy Leonard.

The Leonard Family and Continued Involvement

The Leonard family’s connection to the Pacers remains strong. Her children and grandchildren have continued to be involved in the Indianapolis community and support the Pacers organization. This ongoing involvement serves as a testament to Nancy’s enduring legacy and the values she instilled in her family.

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