Key Highlights
- Natasha Howard’s jersey will be retired by Florida State University on November 16, 2025.
- This makes Howard the fifth player in program history to receive this honor.
- Natasha Howard returned to the Indiana Fever after a decade-long career, leading them to success with her championship pedigree.
- Howard’s WNBA stats include three championships and MVP honors in the Commissioner’s Cup Final.
Natasha Howard: From Florida State to the Indiana Fever
Natasha Howard, a two-time All-ACC First Team selection during her time at Florida State University (FSU), is set to become the fifth player in program history to have her jersey retired. This significant honor will take place on November 16, 2025, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center following FSU’s game against Indiana.
Howard’s journey from Florida State to the WNBA and back is a testament to her resilience and success in women’s basketball.
Drafted by the Indiana Fever in 2014, she returned to the team after nearly a decade away as a seasoned veteran with three championships under her belt. Her impact was felt immediately; Howard brought leadership, poise, and a championship pedigree to one of the league’s youngest cores.
A Turf of Success: Howard’s Legacy at Florida State
At Florida State, Natasha Howard left an indelible mark on the program. She earned All-Defensive Team honors in 2012 and 2014 and was a two-time All-ACC First Team selection in 2013 and 2014. Over her college career, Howard averaged 14.0 points per game across 129 games, with an impressive 1811 points to her name.
She also holds school records for 1,047 career rebounds and 41 double-doubles.
Howard’s contributions were recognized beyond the box score; she was known as a force in the paint who could push the pace of play with ease. During the 2023-2024 season, she led the Fever with 11.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game while playing through injuries.
Support and Celebrations
The announcement of Howard’s jersey retirement has been met with overwhelming support from fans. Social media was flooded with messages of congratulations and admiration, with one fan expressing their excitement: “LET’S GO, NOLES & @THoward_6 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤💛💙💛❤.” Another echoed the sentiment: “Congratulations Flash! 🎉.” The nickname “Flash” is a testament to Howard’s lightning-quick movements and ability to impact the game in unexpected ways.
While fans celebrate this honor, some remain uncertain about Howard’s future with the Fever. As a free agent, her return remains up in the air due to WNBA free agency negotiations and the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
Awards and Recognition
Natasha Howard’s achievements at both the collegiate and professional levels are well-documented. During the 2013-2014 season, she nearly averaged a double-double as a sophomore and senior, showcasing her consistency and reliability. Her statistical prowess was evident in the 2016-2017 season when she averaged 20.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game.
Howard’s impact on the Indiana Fever extended beyond statistics; she brought leadership and experience that helped stabilize the team during a challenging period.
Her return to FSU marks not just an emotional homecoming but also the beginning of a new chapter in her storied career, where she will be forever remembered for her contributions.
Follow the latest updates on Natasha Howard’s retirement ceremony as it unfolds on November 16, 2025. Stay tuned for more details and reflections from the community celebrating this remarkable athlete’s legacy at Florida State University.
