Paul George, the former Pacer, has weighed in on the dynamic impact of Caitlin Clark and Tyrese Haliburton on the Indiana basketball scene. While acknowledging the excitement and attention both stars have brought to the state, George offered a nuanced perspective on their overall influence, particularly on the existing basketball culture in Indiana.

George noted that Indiana has always been a basketball state, with deep-rooted passion for the sport. He highlighted the support for the Indiana Fever, the WNBA team, long before Clark's arrival, recalling how fans rallied behind Tamika Catchings, a Hall of Famer and Fever legend. According to George, the enthusiasm for basketball in Indiana is not new; it's a long-standing tradition.

While George recognized Clark's undeniable impact, particularly in drawing crowds and boosting WNBA revenues, he suggested her arrival didn't fundamentally alter the existing landscape. George stated that Clark is filling arenas, attracting significant attention, and bringing excitement to the WNBA. A study by Indiana University indicated that Clark's presence accounted for a considerable percentage of the WNBA's economic activity in 2024 through tickets, merchandise, and media. The Fever's home games saw an average attendance of over 17,000 fans in 2024, making them the first WNBA team to surpass 300,000 in total attendance in a season.

Tyrese Haliburton has also been instrumental in revitalizing the Pacers. George acknowledged Haliburton's rise to stardom, recognizing him as a clutch performer. Haliburton's achievements, including being named All-NBA for the second time, underscore his importance to the Pacers. George expressed his admiration for the resurgence of basketball in Indiana.

Haliburton himself has acknowledged the support he receives from his teammates, especially after a rocky start to the season. He emphasized the importance of the All-Star break in helping him refocus and improve his performance.

While Clark and Haliburton are undeniably elevating the profile of basketball in Indiana, Paul George's comments serve as a reminder of the state's pre-existing, fervent basketball fanbase. The success of both the Indiana Fever and the Pacers is a testament to the enduring love for the sport within the state, a passion that predates the arrival of these two stars. Together, Clark and Haliburton are building upon a strong foundation, contributing to a vibrant chapter in Indiana's basketball history.