The Indiana Fever checked off the final item on their championship celebration by visiting the White House and being honored by the President on Friday afternoon. And much like their 2012 championship campaign, it didn’t come without obstacles in the road.
Most of the traveling party was scheduled to fly out after practice late Thursday afternoon. However, because of storms on the East Coast, all flights to D.C. were canceled, causing the Fever’s exceptional travel agent, Tambra Brenner, to work all night. The franchise won its first title with a couple key players sidelined with injury and their championship parade was sent indoors because of worrisome weather. Just like in those instances, the Fever overcame the problem.
Ultimately, most of the group got on the first flights Friday morning to D.C., though some had to split up and extra staff had to decide whether to drive or miss this unique opportunity. Despite the minor holdup, which had some players worried, it was a memorable day for all. Players were even allowed to bring one person with them. At around 2:50 PM on Friday, the ladies stood on the risers and welcomed President Barack Obama to the room.
Obama opened his remarks by saying, “If you’re from Indiana, you’d better have a good basketball team.”
Such an awesome day at the @WhiteHouse @BarackObama @IndianaFever @WNBA pic.twitter.com/Z6prmmojEM
— Tamika Catchings (@Catchin24) June 14, 2013
President Barack Obama an I having a laugh!! @BarackObama @TheWhiteHouse #amazing pic.twitter.com/nhyo9ThrPl
— Erin Phillips (@erinphillips13) June 14, 2013
I will never forget this day. So amazing meeting @BarackObama at the White House. Glad I could share it with my mom too.
— Jeanette Pohlen (@JFP32) June 14, 2013
After spending time in the White House and interacting with the President, the Fever ran a basketball clinic for local kids on the South Grounds of the White House.