The Indiana Fever are deep in preparation mode for the 2026 WNBA season, aiming to build on last year's impressive run to the semifinals. But even the most focused training sessions need a spark—and on Wednesday, that spark came in the form of a surprise visit from country music superstar Blake Shelton.
Practice came to a joyful halt as Shelton stepped onto the court. Fever guard Sophie Cunningham couldn't contain her excitement, immediately rushing over to hug the singer. Caitlin Clark, never one to hide her emotions, let out a delighted shout. Head coach Stephanie White and veteran guard Lexie Hull both seized the moment to snap photos with the "God's Country" hitmaker.
But Hull took her fandom to another level. Taking to her Instagram story, she shared her photo with Shelton and gushed about being a "big fan." In a playful post, she even declared the country star as the "newest Indiana Fever addition." It's a priceless reaction that perfectly captures the energy of a team that's as tight-knit off the court as they are competitive on it.
So what brought Shelton to Fever territory? The visit coincided with a major announcement: his popular country-themed restaurant, Ole Red, is expanding to Indiana. Set to open in late 2027, the new location will be just a few blocks from Gainbridge Fieldhouse—home to both the Fever and the NBA's Indiana Pacers.
"Indianapolis, y'all itchin' to have a little fun?" Ole Red posted on social media. "Blake Shelton is bringing his honky-tonk to the heartland. Say howdy to Ole Red Indy."
It's a natural fit for a musician who's clearly making his mark on the community. And if the team's reaction is any indication, once those doors open, Hull, Cunningham, and the rest of the Fever squad will be regulars. After all, what better way to celebrate a big win than with a little country hospitality?
