Nancy Leonard’s Passing
Nancy Leonard, aged 93, has passed away, as confirmed by her family on Tuesday. She was the wife of Bobby “Slick” Leonard, the former head coach and general manager of the Indiana Pacers, and was regarded as a pivotal figure in the organization’s history. The Leonard family shared their grief stating,
“With sorrow, the children of Bob and Nancy Leonard announce the peaceful passing of our mother last night. Her health had been declining, but her spirit remained undaunted; she even insisted on attending Pacers games this past season.”
Known affectionately as the team’s most devoted supporter, Nancy was recognized as the Pacers’ #1 fan.
Contributions to the Pacers
From 1976 to 1980, Nancy contributed significantly to the Pacers as their assistant general manager. While her husband coached the team during its transition from the American Basketball Association (ABA) to the National Basketball Association (NBA), she adeptly managed administrative aspects of the franchise. A crucial moment in the team’s history came in 1977 when the Leonards spearheaded a telethon to raise funds by selling season tickets; an initiative that played a vital role in rescuing the Pacers from financial instability.
Legacy and Tributes
The impact of Nancy Leonard’s involvement was acknowledged by the Simon family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment, who expressed their sorrow:
“We are heartbroken to hear of Nancy Leonard’s passing. Quite simply, we would not be here without her. 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.”
In her later years, Nancy Leonard continued to engage with the team and was present for the Pacers’ journey to the 2025 NBA Finals. Tyrese Haliburton, a player for the Pacers, honored her on social media, referring to her as “The First Lady of Indiana basketball” and reflecting on the warmth she brought to each game. He stated,
“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.”
Bobby Leonard, who passed away in April 2021, was also a noted broadcaster and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014, solidifying his and Nancy’s enduring legacy within the sport.
