 The Indiana Pacers are no longer flying under the radar. With a revitalized roster, newfound chemistry, and electric performances on both ends of the court, the Pacers are making a strong case as one of the most exciting teams in the NBA heading into the 2025–26 season.
Led by All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers have turned into a must-watch team.
Haliburton, who averaged a double-double last season, continues to demonstrate why he’s one of the league’s most creative floor generals. His ability to create offense not only for himself but for teammates like Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker has transformed Indiana’s pace and space identity into a relentless offensive machine.
Perhaps the biggest storyline this offseason is the evolution of Bennedict Mathurin, the second-year guard whose scoring prowess and defensive tenacity have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite two-way players. After averaging over 20 points per game last season, Mathurin has been putting in work during the offseason with former NBA veterans to refine his footwork and shot selection.
Indiana’s front office, led by President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard, made bold yet calculated moves during the draft and free agency. The acquisition of a seasoned rim protector in Isaiah Hartenstein adds grit and rebounding muscle to a frontcourt that needed it. Meanwhile, the selection of Jaylon Tyson, a high-IQ wing with scoring upside, provides even more depth to an already versatile lineup.
Coach Rick Carlisle has spoken highly of the team’s unity and drive. “This group is hungry,” Carlisle said in a recent interview.
“They’re not just playing for stats — they’re playing for each other. That’s rare.” The coaching staff has also praised the team’s defensive improvements, particularly the emergence of Andrew Nembhard as a disruptive perimeter defender.
The Pacers’ summer league performance has also turned heads, with Jarace Walker looking more comfortable and confident with his midrange game and leadership. Fans in Indianapolis are already buzzing about his potential breakout year. If Walker continues to trend upward, Indiana might just have the perfect modern power forward to complement Myles Turner.
Speaking of Myles Turner, the veteran big man remains the anchor of the team’s defense. With his shot-blocking ability and improved three-point shooting, Turner provides the kind of spacing and rim protection that perfectly fits Indiana’s offensive and defensive philosophies.
The team’s fast-paced, high-efficiency offense — which ranked among the top five in scoring last season — has only gotten sharper. New additions and returning players have meshed well during training camp, and early scrimmages indicate a team that could contend in the Eastern Conference sooner than expected.
Indiana’s fan base, long known for its basketball IQ and passionate support, is energized like never before. Season ticket sales are up, local media coverage is intensifying, and there’s a palpable sense that something special is brewing in the Hoosier State.
While championship contention may still be a season away, one thing is clear: the Indiana Pacers are building a sustainable, exciting future.
With a balanced mix of youth, experience, and leadership — and a chip on their shoulder — the Blue and Gold are no longer rebuilding. They’re reloading, and the rest of the league should take notice.
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