In an unprecedented and historic move for women’s basketball, the WNBA community is buzzing with excitement after league president Cathy Engelbert officially announced a staggering $600 million investment for the expansion and renaming of the Indiana Fever’s home ground. The iconic arena — soon to be known as Stephanie White Arena — will undergo a massive transformation into a 50,000-seat, state-of-the-art sports and entertainment facility, redefining the basketball experience not only in Indianapolis but across the globe.
The groundbreaking announcement, made at a press conference in downtown Indianapolis, was met with thunderous applause from Fever fans, WNBA players, and basketball enthusiasts everywhere. Engelbert, who has consistently championed the growth and visibility of women’s sports, described the project as “a bold leap forward — a vision that matches the greatness, resilience, and ambition of the WNBA.”
Why the Expansion Matters
The Indiana Fever, a cornerstone franchise in the WNBA since their inception in 2000, have long been a beacon for women’s sports in the Midwest. While their current home has served them well, Engelbert explained that the league’s growing fan base, the Fever’s deep legacy, and the surging popularity of the WNBA demanded something bigger — much bigger.
“This isn’t just about basketball,” Engelbert said. “It’s about creating a home for the next generation of athletes, entertainers, and fans. The Stephanie White Arena will be a symbol of excellence, empowerment, and limitless possibilities.”
The name change honors Stephanie White, the legendary Fever player, former head coach, and Indiana native who has made indelible contributions to the sport. White herself was present at the announcement, visibly moved as she addressed the crowd.
“To have my name on an arena of this magnitude is surreal,” White said. “This is about all of us — the players, the fans, the community — and about proving that women’s sports deserve to stand on the biggest stages in the world.”
What the $600 Million Will Deliver
The Stephanie White Arena is set to be one of the most advanced sports facilities ever built. Key features include:
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Seating for 50,000 fans, making it the largest basketball-specific arena in the world.
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A retractable roof to accommodate both indoor and outdoor events.
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Cutting-edge LED court technology that can transform instantly for different events, from basketball games to concerts to esports tournaments.
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VIP lounges and luxury sky suites, ensuring top-tier experiences for corporate partners and high-profile guests.
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Expanded training and medical facilities designed to keep athletes at peak performance year-round.
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Community integration zones, including youth basketball courts, public gyms, and wellness centers accessible to Indianapolis residents.
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A WNBA Hall of Fame wing celebrating the sport’s pioneers, champions, and cultural impact.
Architectural renderings of the arena reveal a sleek, modern design with glass facades, sustainable green roofing, and vibrant lighting displays that will illuminate the Indianapolis skyline on game nights.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett emphasized that the arena’s expansion would be a game-changer for the city’s economy, projecting thousands of construction jobs and a long-term boost in tourism. “From hosting WNBA Finals games to attracting major global events, the Stephanie White Arena will put Indianapolis on the map in a whole new way,” Hogsett said.
Local businesses are already preparing for the surge in visitors. Hotels are planning upgrades, restaurants are expanding menus, and merchandise shops are preparing to stock limited-edition Fever gear. Experts estimate the project could generate over $1.2 billion in economic activity in the first five years after reopening.
Fan and Player Reactions
The Fever’s star guard, Aliyah Boston, took to social media to share her excitement:
“50,000 fans? In OUR house? This is next-level. Let’s go, Indy!”
Longtime season ticket holders expressed pride and disbelief. “I’ve been with the Fever since day one, and to see something like this happen — it’s more than basketball, it’s a statement,” said Teresa Miller, a fan from Carmel.
Players from across the WNBA also chimed in. Sue Bird called it “a monumental step for women’s sports,” while A’ja Wilson tweeted, “Every arena in the league just got challenged — this is the future.”
Timeline and Future Plans
Construction on the Stephanie White Arena will begin in early 2026, with completion projected for the 2029 WNBA season. In the meantime, the Fever will continue playing at their current venue, with temporary upgrades planned to enhance the fan experience until the grand reopening.
Beyond basketball, the arena will host high-profile concerts, NCAA tournaments, global esports events, and even major cultural gatherings. The WNBA is also in talks to host the first-ever Women’s Basketball World Cup at the venue within its first five years of operation.
A Statement to the World
This move comes amid unprecedented growth for the WNBA, with record-breaking attendance, television ratings, and corporate sponsorship deals. Engelbert sees the Stephanie White Arena as both a reward for loyal Fever fans and a beacon for women’s sports worldwide.
“When people walk into this arena, they’ll know immediately: women’s sports are not secondary,” Engelbert declared. “They are world-class, they are worth investing in, and they are here to stay.”
As Indianapolis prepares for this monumental transformation, one thing is certain: the Stephanie White Arena will not only change the skyline — it will change the game.
