Freezing temps, wind chill and packed streets anyway? Yes, that was Indiana in February. When the 2024 NBA All-Star Game rolled into town, the snow didn’t stand a chance because the fans made it the hottest weekend of the year. Over $403 million poured into Indy and Central Indiana. That’s $80 million more than anyone predicted. Now, they’re doing it again. The 2025 WNBA All-Star Weekend is coming to Indy. And if the past is any clue, this city isn’t just going to host it; it’s going to own it. From the early snaps, it’s already a big yes.

For the first time in 25 years, the WNBA All-Star Weekend is heading to Indianapolis, and if you think they’re going to treat this like just another basketball event, think again. Just a year after hosting the NBA All-Star Game for the first time since 1985, the city is back at it. And it’s unbelievable that they’ve done it in less than a year. The league actually approached Indy on short notice when the original host city faced a conflict. They jumped at the chance and turned the city into a W hoops wonderland.

Thanks to ESPN’s Holly Rowe, we just got our first stunning glimpse of what’s coming. So here’s what Rowe showed us – straight from the Indianapolis airport, where a full-size basketball court greets guests, decked out in bold All-Star logos and vibrant colors. Stamped across the court is “Welcome to the W, We’ve been expecting you”. And if that wasn’t enough, nearby banners showcase all your favorite All-Stars, surrounded by signature WNBA branding and even a hoop setup. It’s giving “this is our moment” and we’re loving it. Rowe said it best: “It’s so cool, I love it.” So do we.

Let us also tell you that the airport transformation was crafted by Miles Printing, a woman-owned Indiana-based business. The stunning court image took 92 hours to install and will stay up until July 21. The All-Star energy doesn’t stop at the airport, though. Over the past few weeks, downtown Indy has been draped in massive banners and signage, highlighting not just the All-Star event itself, but also the vets who made this game what it is today. Plus, it’s big-name partners like Nike, Gatorade, Delta, Coach, and more. 

Indeed, Indiana is basketball Hollywood right now. This is their moment, and the momentum is clear. From Indiana University to Notre Dame, from the Pacers to the Fever – basketball is in the state’s DNA. Also, one of the biggest reasons this weekend feels so special is the way this city has embraced women’s sports. Also, in just the past year alone, they’ve hosted March Madness (twice), the Total Solar Eclipse, the Olympic Swim Trials, Fever making the playoffs, Taylor Swift concerts, the Royal Rumble, and even the Pacers in the NBA Finals. 

So, while there was no doubt about Indy’s infrastructure, what really seals the deal is the fandom. You already know they’re going to show up loud when their hometown favorite, Captain Caitlin Clark, is leading Team Clark against Napheesa Collier’s squad. Add in fellow Fever stars Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, and Indiana and its people are more than ready. 

WNBA All-Star energy takes over Indy- Know what’s all cooking 

In every sense of the word, Indianapolis is all in for WNBA All-Star 2025. There’s way more to look forward to than just the game and the 3-point contest. We’re talking a full city takeover. Let’s start with the news that you can ride IndyGo buses for free during All-Star weekend, July 18–19.  Most routes take you straight to the Julia M. Carson Transit Center, and from there, Gainbridge Fieldhouse is literally a block away. So enjoy hoops with zero traffic stress.

And along with hospitality, they are taking care of their city, too. Speaking of which, Pacers Sports & Entertainment teamed up with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful to clean up all 25 Indy Park basketball courts. Volunteers hit the pavement – trash bags in hand – for a pickup game of a different kind. This “WNBA All-Star Court Clean-Up” is part of a larger sustainability push to make sure the city shines just as bright as its All-Star guests. And it’s not just about fun and flash. 

The WNBA and the All-Star Host Committee are running community events from July 17–19 focused on youth empowerment, health, career growth, and giving back. One of the biggest moments is the second annual WNBA Changemaker Day at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 17. Oh, and by the way, EssentiallySports is heading to Indy too. We’ve got coverage, content, and maybe a few surprises planned just for you.

So the game will be iconic, hands down. But everything around it might just be the real All-Star moment.