Nancy Leonard, the ‘First Lady of Indiana basketball,’ dies at 93

(WXIN/WTTV) — Nancy Leonard, the woman considered the matriarch of the Indiana Pacers and the “First Lady of Indiana basketball,” has died at the age of 93.

The Pacers and Leonard’s family confirmed her passing in a statement on Tuesday.

The widow of former Pacers coach and general manager Bobby “Slick” Leonard, the 93-year-old Nancy played a key role in keeping the franchise in Indianapolis after joining the NBA in 1977. Since then, she has stayed heavily involved in Pacers operations.

“We are heartbroken to hear of Nancy Leonard’s passing. Quite simply, we would not be here without her,” the Pacers 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.”

Nancy Leonard served as assistant GM of the Pacers from 1976 to 1980, largely handling administrative duties as the NBA’s first female front office executive while her husband Bobby coached the team.

It was Nancy’s idea in 1977 to organize the now-legendary “Save the Pacers” telethon that helped keep the team in Indiana.

After leaving her front office job, Nancy continued to be ever-present in every aspect of the franchise. A courtside staple during almost every game, the Pacers described her as a “true superfan.”

“Her passion for the organization made her beloved by generations of players, alumni and staff,” the team said. “She will always be part of the Pacers family and her legacy will continue to shape who we are.”

Nancy stayed involved in the franchise after Bobby passed away in April 2021 at the age of 88, continuing to attend games and support the team during their run to the 2025 NBA Finals.

Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton posted a statement on social media Wednesday in remembrance of Nancy.

“The First Lady of Indiana basketball. 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.”

– Tyrese Haliburton

To read a full statement from the Pacers on Nancy’s passing, click here.