
Tamika Catchings Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Speaking Fee:
$10,000 to $20,000
Travels From:
IND - Indianapolis, IN
Travels From:
IND - Indianapolis, IN
Primary Topic Category:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) / Social Justice
Primary Topic Category:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) / Social Justice
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Tamika Catchings Speaker Profile: At A Glance
Indiana’s “do-everything” forward completed 16 seasons in the WNBA, stepping away from her future-hall-of-fame-career following the 2016 season. Her naming as recipient of the very first ESPN Humanitarian Award in 2015 and a 14-year run of community service by her Catch The Stars Foundation are testament to her work off the court, however – more impactful than her MVP career on the court. The first man or woman in recorded basketball history to record a quintuple-double (Duncanville High School in 1997), Catchings’ leadership, tenacity and all-around skills led the Indiana Fever to becoming one of the WNBA’s elite franchises.
Tamika Catchings is an iconic figure in women's basketball, known not only for her prowess on the court but also for her dedication to community service and mentoring. She was born on July 21, 1979, in Stratford, New Jersey, but her roots quickly spread as she moved with her family, adapting to new environments and discovering her love for basketball at a young age. Her father, Harvey Catchings, played in the NBA, which undoubtedly influenced Tamika's early interest in the game. Despite facing the challenge of hearing loss, she honed her skills and developed the resilience that would define her career.
Her high school career was marked by exceptional achievements, including being named a WBCA All-American. Tamika then took her talents to the University of Tennessee, playing under the legendary coach Pat Summitt. At Tennessee, she made a significant impact, helping her team secure a national championship in 1998. Her college career was decorated with numerous accolades, including the Naismith College Player of the Year award. Catchings’ versatility, defensive prowess, and leadership set her apart as a formidable player in women's college basketball.
Tamika was selected third overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2001 WNBA Draft. Her professional career was nothing short of extraordinary. Over her 15-year career with the Fever, she became a ten-time WNBA All-Star and a five-time Defensive Player of the Year. She was instrumental in leading the Fever to a WNBA Championship in 2012, and her contribution to the league was recognized with her MVP award in 2011. Beyond her personal achievements, Tamika has left an indelible mark on the sport through her leadership, sportsmanship, and passion for empowering others.
Off the court, Tamika Catchings has made significant strides as a community advocate and businesswoman. She founded the Catch the Stars Foundation, which aims to empower youth through fitness, literacy, and personal development. Her commitment to community service and her drive to make a difference have been a consistent theme throughout her life. After retiring from professional basketball, she transitioned into roles that keep her connected to the sport and community, including serving as the Fever's General Manager and working as a respected analyst and motivational speaker.
Her story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving excellence, and giving back. Tamika Catchings continues to inspire others by sharing her experiences and lessons learned, whether through her motivational speaking engagements or her ongoing philanthropic work. Her legacy reaches beyond basketball, embodying the spirit of dedication, resilience, and the impact of positive change.