Nancy Leonard, the Indiana Pacers' matriarch and the women whose telethon saved the team from moving out of the city in 1977, died today at age 93. The wife of late Pacers coaching and announcing legend Bob "Slick" Leonard, she was a major force behind the dynastic Pacers in the ABA, working as Slick's assistant and as general manager of the team. 

The telethon, organized by Slick and Nancy, produced enough season tickets to save the franchise and keep it in Indianapolis. 

Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton wrote the following in a social-media post:

"The First Lady of Indiana basketball. Before every game, I knew I could count on a wink and a smile behind the bench. There is no Pacers basketball without Nancy Leonard. Can't wait to see the day her name is in the rafters where it belongs,. RIP to a legend and a beautiful soul."

Here was a statement from the Simon family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment:

"We are heartbroken to hear of Nancy Leonard's passing, Quite simply, we would not be here without her. From the earliest days of the franchise, Nancy poured her heart and soul into the team, not just as the wife of Slick Leonard, but as a female trailblazer who rallied the community when we needed it the most.

"From organizing the now-legendary telethon that helped save the team to being a constant presence courtside as a true superfan, her passion for the organization made her beloved by generations of players, alumni and staff. She will always be part of the Pacers family and her legacy will continue to shape who we are. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Leonard family and all who were touched by Nancy's remarkable life."