Tamika Catchings Mural

Overview

WNBA superstar, Naismith Hall Of Fame inductee, and local icon Tamika Catchings is the subject of a new mural in downtown Indianapolis. Catchings played all 16 seasons of her professional career for the Indiana Fever, setting and breaking many records and playing in 10 WNBA All-Star games. She is a four-time Olympic gold medalist, and led the Fever to the WNBA national championship in 2012. Catchings served as president of the WNBA Players Association from 2012 to 2016 and was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2020.

Catchings is still based in Indianapolis and is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a basketball executive. She is the owner of three Teas Me cafes in Indianapolis and is the co-executive director of her own Catch the Stars Foundation through which she promotes youth development through sports, literacy, and character.

“Being part of this process is truly humbling and it’s such an honor to be recognized in this special way, especially in the city I call home,” said Catchings, who is also serving as the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee co-chair. “Basketball has given me so much, but my greatest passion has always been giving back, lifting up the next generation and inspiring others to chase their dreams. This tribute isn’t just about me; it’s about the power of perseverance, teamwork, and believing in something bigger than yourself. I hope this mural will serve as a daily reminder that with hard work and heart, anything is possible.”

An international call for interested artists was conducted in late 2024, and four finalists were selected to create concept designs. The finalists had the opportunity to speak with Catchings and learn more about her so they could express her personality and legacy in their designs.

Nate Baranowski from South Bend, Indiana, won the honor and created the mural this summer. He has experience in various art forms, including large murals, acrylic paintings, and digital art. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Illinois, where he developed his passion for street painting.

The selection committee praised Baranowski's concept for capturing Catchings' joyful personality and basketball legacy. Catchings herself noted that “Nate's artwork highlights my entire career from basketball to giving back through the Catch the Stars Foundation.”