Fieldhouse Files: Scott Agness on the Indiana Pacers

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss the Pacers’ 2022-23 season schedule being out — four preseason games and another 82-game slate. Then, I’ll get into the team re-upping with Bally Sports and how it directly affects you — the fans. Among the items discussed on this episode: Opening the season Oct. 19, home for their first three games. How many fans will be seeing improvements to The Fieldhouse for the first time. Four exhibition games scheduled, including a home-and-home against the Knicks. Key home opponents to mark down. (13:45) Bally Sports remaining the local TV home of the team. (15:25) Reporting on the announcers being sent on the road again. (17:50) A new option, Bally Sports+, for those on streaming services or do not subscribe to a cable package. (20:02) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

These are the conversations I love having. It’s why I launched the podcast in the first place back in 2015. To peel back the curtain and introduce you to members of the team behind the team. On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m sitting down with Tyler Marsh. He’s coached at all levels, most recently on staff with the Pacers the past two seasons and is now working with Becky Hammon and the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA. Among the items discussed on this episode: His whirlwind year — finishing the season with the Pacers, joining the Aces and expecting his first child in Sept. Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek, a close friend of Becky Hammon’s, connecting Marsh and then attending the first week of training camp. (5:48) On two unique seasons with the Pacers and growing up a fan of the team. (8:20) Getting paired with players for workouts, pre-game warmups. (14:20) His role with the Aces and taking on more responsibilities. (17:24) How this past weekend was his first visit to historic Hinkle Fieldhouse. (21:20) Influence of his father Donnie Marsh on coaching and whether he tried to talk Tyler out of it. (22:15) Receiving a game ball from Pacers coach Rick Carlisle and the team after his final game. (25:50) “I spent some time with the Mad Ants, their G League team, back in 2016-17 season and I didn’t think it could get much better than that,” Marsh said. “When I was able to join the staff of the Pacers that was truly a blessing and truly a dream come true. “My two years here, forget about the wins and losses, the Pacers are a Class A organization from top to bottom and the way that they embraced me and the way that the community embraced myself and my wife was great. I couldn’t have asked for more during my time here.” ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m back from NBA Summer League and will go through my experience out in Las Vegas and how the Pacers did. Then discuss the Pacers doing something they’ve never done before. That’s offering restricted free agent Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns. And while they eventually lost out on him, I think they’ve made progress from where they were one year ago. Among the items discussed on this episode: Why summer league is my favorite NBA event. Chris Duarte played in one game and is still bothered by a toe injury. (5:15) Ronald Nored running the Summer Pacers. (7:30) Takeaways from the games. (9:00) NBA awarding championship rings now for SL. (15:00) Aaron Nesmith joining the team — and why the delay. (18:45) The pursuit of Deandre Ayton. (24:00) Waiving four players prior to the offer sheet. (34:30) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss Jalen Smith staying with the Pacers after being considered a long shot to re-sign, where they stand with free agency, several former Pacers landed deals elsewhere — and more. Among the items discussed on this episode: What enticed Jalen to remain with the Pacers. (3:00) The exact terms of his deal. End of NBA moratorium — but they wait to sign in front of an audience. (6:45) Makeup of the roster right now, the latest on Myles Turner. (11:45) Deandre Ayton? (14:15) T.J. Warren and Edmond Sumner off to Brooklyn. (18:00) Thoughts on the summer league squad. (20:30) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I recapped my time at the NBA Draft, then discussed free agency. The Pacers were quiet on Day 1, then checked off a few key items. Among them, dealing Malcolm Brogdon to the Boston Celtics — so later, I’m be joined by Jared Weiss of The Athletic in Boston to discuss. Among the items discussed on this episode: My experience in New York for the NBA Draft. Two things that were different at the draft v TV. How Bennedict Mathurin was the Pacers’ guy all along. Characteristics in players they are after. Why Tyrese Haliburton was with Mathurin before the draft. An elaborate introduction for the three draft picks… (14:45) Free agency/Brogdon trade (19:40) Jalen Smith … back!? Wow. (26:50) What’s up with T.J. Warren? (29:40) Updates on Edmond Sumner, Lance Stephenson (31:00) What’s left in free agency — Myles Turner? DeAndre Ayton? (35:20) Jared Weiss on Brogdon’s change in attitude, plus how the five Celtics players fit with the Pacers should they be kept. (41:00) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, it’s time to talk about the NBA Draft. The Pacers have three picks, including their highest selection since 1988. And they have the potential to add another lottery selection. Among the items discussed on this episode: Warriors winning their fourth title in eight years; and there are several staff members with Pacers/Indiana connections. Rick Carlisle’s first draft fully involved. He was hired one year ago Friday. What I see and enjoy watching most at pre-draft workouts. (Full list of players) Pacers’ latest addition to the front office. Which trades make sense and trying to align draft classes. Five very good options at No. 6, starting with Jaden Ivey. Having zero interest in Shaedon Sharp. All bad vibes. How the front office spends the next few days. Lastly, hear from Pacers executive Ryan Carr about this draft. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, you’ll hear my interview with Duane Washington Jr. from the 500 Festival Parade and then I’ll introduce you to someone who has been around The Fieldhouse for a while. That’s Jhared Simpson, now a Fever assistant coach, who came up through the video room. Among the items discussed on this episode with Simpson: How coming up through the video room is helpful for aspiring coaches, like it was for Frank Vogel and Erik Spoelstra. “The best coaches are the best thieves,” he joked. Why it was a good move from the video room to the bench — taking a coaching role with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. “You don’t have the rewind button any more.” What his experience has been like working under Hall of Fame coach Marianne Stanley. How the women’s game is more of a tactical game. Realities of the WNBA — short season, small rosters (12) and just 12 teams, now due for expansion. Inside the draft room and the characteristics they prioritized. “Draft night was a breeze.” He shared their draft process and the one trait they valued most. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll share my experience from Chicago — inside the drawing room at the draft lottery and attending the draft combine. Then, I answer fan questions. Among the items discussed on this episode: The NBA world gathering in Chicago. Being one of two local reporters inside the drawing room at the draft lottery. 1-on-1 with Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan immediately afterward. (15:00) Full schedules last week for team evaluators. Value of the draft combine — for players and teams. Plus, your questions answered. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll tell you who will represent the franchise at the draft lottery, discuss an option Pacers fans may have to watch games next season … and then I’ll be joined by Caitlin Cooper of Indy Cornrows. This is her first visit on the podcast. This offseason for the Pacers is about simplification, identifying who is on the roster and what playing style and schemes fits this group — then making a leap. This is her first visit on the podcast. And we had no shortage of topics to discuss. Getting into writing about the Pacers, starting during the 2013-14 season. State of the franchise and the top priority being defense, which ranked 28th last season. Her reaction to swapping Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton and why they “nailed the trade deadline.” What Myles Turner could look like offensively next season. Future roles of Duane Washington Jr., Terry Taylor and Oshae Brissett. Positions that needed to be upgraded for next season. Get to know Caitlin and her passion for the game. These past few seasons being very segmented — and the value of having a connected team. And so … much … more. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers completed their worst season since 1984-85 with just 25 wins. A redirection and reset was necessary, but it cannot become the norm. It’s good to be back behind a microphone and talking with you once again. This one is just me — and there’s a lot of ground to cover. Among the items discussed on this episode: Facts and figures that define this past season. The need for an identity, a leader and most of all, good health. The Cavaliers failing the themselves and the Pacers, thus retaining their 2022 first-round pick. Clarification on Rick Carlisle speaking out. Missing out on the playoffs and a few Pacers motivated to go through that experience. Why the Pacers have more open home dates in March the next two seasons. Players' contracts situation. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Sean Cunningham is a reporter covering the Sacramento Kings for ABC10 and the Kings Radio Network. This was a fun conversation on the Pacers-Kings trade involving six players. He is a big fan of Tyrese Haliburton — the person and player. Among the items discussed on this episode: Reaction in Sacramento and a disruption to the Kings’ core Whether the Kings needed clarity at its guard position What will ultimately make this deal worthwhile for the Kings Analysis of Buddy Hield’s game and how he can be a frustrating player Haliburton’s personality and charisma Why there’s so much to like about him and his game ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

There are just six weeks left in the regular season, and Indy is lively with the NFL Combine, Big Ten and Horizon League basketball tournaments in town — and there was a lot of Pacers subjects to touch on. Among the items discussed on this episode: Pacers on the road for 6 of 7, the end of one streak and continuation of another. Playoffs are out of sight, so now what? What to watch for and what we need to see more of. Two Pacers assistant coaches made decisions about jobs elsewhere. Tyrese Haliburton shining in his first seven games in Indy. Haliburton-Brogdon backcourt, and why Brogdon’s timeline doesn’t match. All-Star weekend, Haliburton in Rising Stars and Larry Bird's absence. How Oshae Brissett has thrived since The Trades. Being limited in their ability to re-sign Jalen Smith. A surprising local TV note to pass along. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

I expected the Pacers to be active at the trade deadline and they have been. First, agreeing to deal Caris LeVert to the Cavaliers for cap space + draft assets, then a major six-player deal with the Kings centered on Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton. Among the items discussed on this episode: The Pacers’ new direction and why both deals made sense LeVert’s 13 months in Indiana Haliburton surprising availability and the Pacers being thrilled to land him What I’ve been told about him and his booming, charismatic personality Why they’re likely not done yet What this means for Myles Turner and Malcolm Brogdon Lance Stephenson signing for the rest of the season Why forward Reggie Perry is ineligible to play and A LOT more ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers are 15-29 and have lost 13 of their last 16 games. I get into where they are at, plus a few injuries concerns to Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner. Then, you'll get TWO interviews. First, with Mad Ants general manager Chris Taylor, who started with the Pacers back in 2012. And then Carlos Knox on returning to the Indiana Fever as a WNBA assistant. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Fan favorite Lance Stephenson will soon be a Pacer for a third time. The Pacers plan to sign the guard to a 10-day contract, league sources told Fieldhouse Files. On this podcast, I talk about the move and then am joined by Lance's skills trainer, Rob Blackwell, to discuss his development and new approach. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Where to begin… It was an active week for the Pacers off the court. Are they serious about a rebuild, what to make of Myles Turner speaking out and Rick Carlisle enters the heath & safety protocols. Among the items discussed on this episode: Head coach Rick Carlisle testing positive for COVID-19, to miss several games; Lloyd Pierce to fill in. Inside Tuesday’s practice and a closed-door meeting with the core players. Myles Turner making his position known, wanting to be valued and maximized. How Kevin Pritchard messed up big time. Why it is a favorable trade market for the Pacers. Undefined and limited roles for several players. Your questions answered. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Kevin Bowen is a proud Hoosier, a Cathedral HS and IU grad who is now the co-host of “Kevin & Query” on 107.5 The Fan in Indianapolis. He can be heard from 7-10 a.m. ET each morning. We covered a lot of ground on this show. Among the items discussed on this episode: Settling in with the new show and his co-host, Jake Query. Taking pride in being a voice in his hometown. How he prepares for the show and getting up around 4:30 a.m. Success of Hard Knocks, the Manningcast and podcasts. Offseason Pacers changes, running it back with the same personnel and health concerns. Fan attendance, viewership concerns and apathy setting in. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Damjan Rudez spent just one season with the Pacers, but he quickly became close with the team and was appreciated by fans. On this episode, Damo opens up on his decision to retire from basketball at 35 and how his one year with the franchise "remains the highlight of my career.” Among the items discussed on this episode: Why now and the factors that went into his decision. How he plans to fill the time with family, coaching and broadcasting. Other teammates deciding to retire recently, like Ian Mahinmi, and hearing from his Pacers family. Feeling crushed when he was traded to Minnesota, and learning about the business of basketball. His experiences with the Timberwolves and the Magic, reuniting with Frank Vogel in Orlando for a season. The value of playing professionally as a teenager and being pushed by veterans. The conditions in Croatia amid the ongoing pandemic. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode, I’m joined by Lauren Roa, the senior director of merchandising and retail, to discuss the Pacers Team Store and the new City Edition Mixtape Uniform — from concept to on the court and in her store. She’s now on her sixth season in this role. Among the items discussed on this episode: Newly-renovated team store at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which is open Monday-Saturday 12-5 p.m, and is innovative, has improved lighting. They’re focusing on technology and experience, in addition to products. Like at games, it is a cashless experience. What happened to the giant basketball and Boomer inside the store. How ‘90s items and throwbacks have become among the bestsellers, along with the jersey of lottery pick Chris Duarte. Her background in merchandise, working at Finish Line for eight years, returning after previously being an intern to run the team store. The detailed process to design (three years ago) and launch a new uniform, working in conjunction with Nike. “Product is king.” Paying homage to Slick with “Boom Baby!” and individually numbered options. Challenges with the supply chain and how it has impacted all parts of the business. The marketing team’s activation at home games to create a mixtape moment resembling the mixtape promos. Working with Josh Conder (aka Country), the Pacers’ equipment manager, to draft up what uniform the team will wear for each game. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode, I go solo from the road ... and share my thoughts on the Pacers' 3-7 start, the unfavorable schedule, what's up with home games, a cautious ramp up for Caris LeVert, plenty of injury updates, and why all the talk about the Wilson basketball? ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

J. Michael Falgoust spent the last three years covering the Pacers for the Indianapolis Star, but he recently departed to become the sports editor at the Orlando Sentinel, where he got his start in the business. He discussed his new role, then we got into the craft of beat reporting, how it's often misunderstood — and then covered his time in Indy writing about the team. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Eddie White knows everybody and has an enthusiasm for life you have to appreciate. He once hosted a daily sports talk show in Indy, and now continues to host the Pacers postgame radio show. On this episode, we talked about the Pacers' opening-night loss in Charlotte, Chris Duarte shining, renovations to Gainbridge Fieldhouse and why he enjoys being on the air after each game. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode, we discuss his game prep, what they have in store on Bally Sports Indiana, what he's observed in camp practices, rookie Isaiah Jackson's development, the need for a huge improvement defensively, a rough schedule to start the season and how the 2020 season was just finishing one year ago... ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

A new season is here. Within the last week, The Fieldhouse was renamed, opened to full capacity and the Pacers completed six practices. Before preseason games, I shared my observations from camp, highlighted a few new things and then brought Jeff Stotts of InStreetClothes.com on to discuss the three players sitting out due to injuries: LeVert, Warren and Sumner. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

It was sooo good to be back. Summer League in Las Vegas returned and I had a productive time last month. On this episode, I talked about what it was like covering the team and shared some observations, then The Athletic's Senior NBA Writer Sam Amick joined to discuss his experience, the Pacers' failed experiment with Nate Bjorkgren, Rick Carlisle replacing him, how small-market teams can compete & much more. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

I covered a lot of ground on this episode. ... Updates on a couple players spending time in other countries, thoughts on the Bucks' title, the Pacers' impressive coaching staff and their responsibilities, Lloyd Pierce wins gold with Team USA, a few other hires, Brogdon leading a player mini-camp in LA, Chris Duarte and Isaiah Jackson added in the draft, re-signing T.J. McConnell, a funny story about Doug McDermott literally moving out, where Keifer Sykes and DeJon Jarreau fit in on two-ways, Goga Bitadze's absence, news about Lance Stephenson, a HUGE Mad Ants story, Cassius Stanley on the outside, Myles Turner hitting reset and Rick Carlisle evaluating his roster. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Rick Carlisle has worked quickly to fill out his staff, and he's hired Lloyd Pierce as his top assistant. Pierce, 45, was the Hawks head coach for two and half years, going 63-120 in 183 games. He was replaced midseason by Nate McMillan, who pushed them to the conference finals. Chris Kirschner of The Athletic joins to talk about Pierce, a breakdown in relationships and where he needs to improve. Plus, his biggest accomplishment from the past year — which goes beyond basketball. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers held a Zoom press conference on the final day of June to reintroduce Rick Carlisle to media and fans. From his home in South Carolina, he spoke for nearly an hour and touched on a little bit of everything. On this episode, you'll hear his opening remarks and then Tim MacMahon from ESPN joins. He's in Dallas, covered Rick for the last decade and offers a ton of insight. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers made a huge hire Thursday, agreeing to a four-year deal with Rick Carlisle to become the head coach for a second time. Here are my thoughts on the course correction, Carlisle arriving with instant credibility and the significant investment from ownership. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers got contributions from all over to beat the Hornets 144-117 and keep their season alive. They play the Wizards Thursday at 8pm; it's their third meeting in 18 days. I talked about the Pacers' play-in victory and then looked ahead to Thursday's elimination game with Fred Katz, Wizards beat reporter for The Athletic. (The winner becomes the 8-seed and faces the 76ers.) ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers (34-38) finished one game ahead of the Hornets (33-39) and thus host their play-in game Tuesday at 6:30pm ET. The Pacers' injury list is long and they went 1-2 vs the Hornets this season. Rod Boone covers them for SI and joined me to look ahead to this must-win game. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Tamika Catchings had a remarkable basketball career, winning at every level. She's a first ballot Hall of Famer. She played her entire professional career with the Fever and has called Indianapolis home since being drafted by the team in 2001. On this podcast, I go 1-on-1 with Catch before enshrinement weekend in Connecticut, the influence of her presenters (Alonzo Mourning and Dawn Staley), what she's most proud of — and a couple of stories from my time working with her. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Pat Boylan is in his seventh season on the Pacers Radio Network, serving as the sideline reporter and studio host. We discussed how our jobs in media are different this season due to the pandemic, the passing of Hall of Famer Slick Leonard, filling in for Mark Boyle on play-by-play and how Pacers broadcasters started their own gameday shootaround. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers are 27-31 and on the outside of the playoff picture with 14 games remaining. Injuries are piling up, they're getting handled in 4th quarters and the team is underachieving. Derek Schultz, co-host of "Query & Schultz," joins me to discuss their relevance locally and the challenge to even watch games, the offseason coaching change and then Derek shares why they can't simply run it back next year. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

David Craig knows Slick Leonard better than most. He was the Pacers athletic trainer for 35 years and while Slick was the coach, they were roommates on the road. Craig shares stories of Slick, how he gave money to those in need, how he was fiery during games and then required players to stop by The Pub after games. You'll enjoy this one... Click here for my breaking news story on him passing. And here's how the Pacers honored him at the game that night. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Indiana lost an icon Tuesday morning. Bobby "Slick" Leonard passed away in his sleep; he was 88. He lived a joyful, fulfilling life with his wife Nancy by his side for 66 years. ... I'll share my thoughts, a few highlights from my interviews with him and then Mark Montieth joins for an in-depth conversation on Slick, who was beloved by all. Click here for my breaking news story on him passing. And here's how the Pacers honored him at the game that night. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Bankers Life Fieldhouse hosted 43 games in 40 days, and Indianapolis served as the only host of the entire NCAA men's basketball tournament. Chris Gahl is the Senior VP of Marketing & Communications with Visit Indy, an organization tasked with bringing events to town. Gahl discusses how the city is coming alive again, being the envy of other cities that see how Indy is getting it done, shifting the NBA All-Star game to 2024 and renovations to The Fieldhouse. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Butler basketball coach LaVall Jordan coached Caris LeVert for four seasons while an assistant coach at the University of Michigan (2012-16). Jordan discusses UM getting in late with LeVert, how he developed into one of the best players in the country and simply loves to hoop. We also touched on these unusual times — which doesn't allow for LeVert to visit Butler practice or for them to even hang out. But they are now in the same city and continue to talk frequently. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Pacers rookie Cassius Stanley is one of three contestants in the 2021 All-Star slam dunk contest in Atlanta and the first-ever player invited who's on a two-way contract. He's spent the five weeks away from the Pacers in the G League bubble. He discusses the invitation, weighing the pros and cons, reaching out to two former Pacers who were in the event, his passion for the dunk contest and how he's preparing for his time in the spotlight — which will be seen by millions in more than 215 countries worldwide. (2:35) Then, I catch up with Mad Ants GM Brian Levy from inside the bubble after they wrapped up the 15-game regular season, going 6-9 and missing the postseason. (18:44) ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Donnie Walsh was the longtime architect of the Indiana Pacers. He first joined the franchise in 1984 as an assistant coach, but coaching wasn't his end game. He earned a law degree and wanted to run a franchise — and two years later, he became general manager. On Dec. 30, 2020, Donnie Walsh he finalized his decision to retire after giving his life to the game. This is his first extensive interview and we covered a lot of ground — from playing at UNC to getting into coaching, aspiring to run a team, the evolution of the game and much more. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

It's Feb. 12 and Indy should be buzzing with thousands of guests from across the world. But the pandemic interrupted plans for Indy to host the 2021 NBA All-Star game. Rick Fuson, the President and COO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, is my guest this week to discuss what was supposed to be Indy's weekend, when they knew it would all be moved and how volunteers are helping out with the NCAA men's basketball tournament. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Sarah Kustok is part of the NBA's best local TV broadcast, serving as the Nets game analyst on the YES Network. She's covered the Nets since 2012 and was there when Caris LeVert joined the franchise in 2016. Since the Pacers acquired LeVert in a four-team trade, the first call I made was to Kustok to learn even more about what the Pacers were getting. “I don’t even think he’s scratched the surface of the player that he’s going to become," she said. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

This is a news-packed episode of the Fieldhouse Files. I start off with updates on my own work, then get into the Victor Oladipo-Caris LeVert trade, the discovery of a small mass on LeVert's kidney, Myles Turner's right hand and other news. ... Then, listen to Pacers president Kevin Pritchard's full conversation with reporters on LeVert's health and why they chose NOT to void the trade. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

It's the final episode of 2020. To close it out, I touch on longtime Pacers executive stepping down from his role as Pacers consultant and the role he had in running the franchise and then Jared Weiss of The Athletic joins to discuss the Pacers' early success, new coach Nate Bjorkgren, no trade being completed for Gordon Hayward and Victor Oladipo's options in the offseason. Thanks for listening this year, and Happy New Year! ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

It was a positive first week of the season for the Pacers: 3-0, Sabonis was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week and the roster is impressed with its coach. On this episode, I catch you up on a couple transactional moves, then discuss the first week of games, adjustments made and a couple role players who have excelled. Then, I share what it's like being at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for a game under the current conditions — and without fans. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Jason Buckner was a manager for IU basketball and coach Knight, he's coached and most recently worked for the Pacers in scouting. He started with the team in Apr. 2012 as the manager of basketball administration and later became one of three regional scouts. Over the summer, he departed and then accepted a job with the Pistons as their director of draft scouting. We'll talk about his career path, being able to work remotely in Indy, his approach talent evaluation and the positive impact his father, Quinn Buckner, has had on his life. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode: I detail Gordon Hayward's desire to play at home for the Pacers and trade talks with the Celtics were doomed from the start, what the Pacers look like entering camp, Nate Bjorkgren filling out his coaching staff and renovations made to Bankers Life Fieldhouse. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all of my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The draft finally happened — five months later than usual and after the date was pushed back twice. I go solo on this podcast to share my thoughts on the night and the Pacers taking Cassius Stanley at 54. Then, I answer key questions on several Pacers and look ahead to free agency. There's mutual interest in Gordon Hayward playing for the Pacers, but what would it take? Take a listen... ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all of my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Dru Anthrop is a native of Lafayette, Indiana and he played basketball at Purdue from 2009-13. He then was a video intern with the Pacers, and after four other stops, he's now the head video coordinator for the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers — working under Frank Vogel. Anthrop discusses his two seasons with the Pacers, how hard work and a lot of luck are positively impacting his career, his time in the bubble and being part of a championship team. Click here to review this podcast. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all of my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The NBA officially completed the 2019-20 season and league staffers spent more than 100 days inside the bubble at Walt Disney World. To make it all work, the NBA recruited individuals across the league. Like Pacers PA announcer Tim Sinclair, and dozens of stats crew members. One of three from Indianapolis was Geoff Sherman, who sits at the scorer's table for Pacers games. He worked 38 games over 62 days while in Florida. Sherman discussed the commitment required, his path to working on stats crews (in 2014), "amazing" things heard during games, teaching IUPUI classes remotely and the importance of saying 'yes.' "The one thing about the bubble is that you lost track of your life a little bit," he said. Click here to read his reflection. Also, click here to review this podcast. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the home for all of my stories. Log on, sign up and follow along for complete Pacers coverage. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

After 55 days, the Pacers have a head coach. Kevin Pritchard led an extensive search with more than two dozen candidates. Ultimately, they decided 45-year-old Nate Bjorkgren was their man. He's coached under NBA Coach of the Year Nick Nurse the last several years and previously won a D League title. On this podcast, I share my thoughts on the hire and learn more about Bjorkgren from Raptors reporter Eric Koreen of The Athletic (11:35). Eric wrote a thorough profile on Bjorkgren in February. Also, click here to review this podcast. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode, I give the NBA credit for its bubble and finishing the season, talk about the Pacers' coaching search, the names I continue to hear (and note the ones I'm not) and what stood out to me about Victor Oladipo's interview just before the NBA Finals started. Plus, notes about Bankers Life Fieldhouse renovations and the first event scheduled since the Big Ten men's basketball tournament last March. Click here to leave a show review. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On Aug. 26, the Pacers officially parted ways with Nate McMillan as head coach after four seasons. It came less than 24 hours after the team returned from the NBA campus in Orlando. One day later, Nate joins the podcast to talk about the front office going in a different direction, his hope for last season, whether he has any regrets and more. (6:26) My story on his firing: https://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/p/pacers-make-sharp-turn-move-on-from ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Six weeks after they arrived in Florida and more than four months after the NBA's stoppage, the playoffs are here. The Pacers went 6-2 in the seeding round and face the Miami Heat in Round 1. AP writer Tim Reynolds joins the show to discuss his experience in the NBA bubble, then preview these franchise's fifth time meeting in the playoffs. (10:00) Then, I'm joined by PointsBet VP Ron Shell to talk about the sports gaming boom, their partnership with the Pacers, and a special promotion for Pacers fans. (44:15) ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Chris Denari is in his 14th season season as the TV play-by-play announcer for the Pacers. He's done it all in Indy — from working at FOX 59 to calling Butler and Fever games. And he remains on the IMS Radio Network. But his new reality, calling games for FOX Sports Indiana from a studio, is much different. On this podcast, we talk about the Pacers' play in the restart and all that goes into Denari calling a game off monitors rather than being courtside. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

My guest on this episode is Kenny "The Jet" Smith. He played at UNC from 1983-87, was drafted by the Sacramento Kings, spent 10 seasons in the NBA and won two championships with the Houston Rockets (1994, 1995). And now he's seen weekly during the NBA season on "Inside the NBA" with EJ, Charles and Shaq. He's recently launched The Jet Academy to help train basketball players from anywhere — and he enlisted Victor Oladipo to teach young players this week. We talked about how he got into broadcasting, Oladipo presenting inside The Bubble, the Pacers' potential this season and the job coach Nate McMillan has done. See more of what he's doing at thejetacademy.com and use code BIGSHAQ at sign-up to save $35. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers.

NBA teams began arriving to Disney's campus — in Lake Buena Vista, Florida — on July 7th. The Pacers checked in on July 9th, so they've been in The Bubble for almost two weeks. Nate McMillan said it had a college feel; others, like T.J. Warren, said it felt more like AAU. Keith Smith, who worked there for nearly 20 years, came on the show to explain why it was the ideal location for the NBA's restart and all the amenities available to players. » FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Keith's story from April 16th: Why Walt Disney World would be the ideal spot for the NBA to salvage its season. Follow Keith on Twitter: @KeithSmithNBA.

The Pacers arrived in Orlando for the NBA's restart on Thursday and over the weekend, another familiar name made his way down there. Tim Sinclair, the voice you hear inside Bankers Life Fieldhouse for home games, was selected by the NBA to be one of four public address announcers for games. Before the trip, we discussed his decision to go inside the bubble (and away from family), how long he’ll be there, what he packed and what it may be like to do his job without fans. ----- FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

C.J. Miles signed with the Pacers in 2014 and spent three seasons in Indy. While his time was relatively short, his impact and wisdom shared was sizable. This podcast was recorded on June 4th — exactly one month before the birth of his second daughter, Nadia Rhea Miles. We opened with a deep conversation about what's on his heart; what it will be like to explain this time to his daughters (9:30); how he had no intention of going straight to the NBA from high school until the day of the 2005 draft (15:44); how the Spurs drafted his close friend Ian Mahinmi over him, a Dallas product (18:00); whether he has always been a comfortable, confident man (20:20); the pressure of being in a contract year (22:00); signing with the Pacers and Larry Bird eating potato chips before dinner (26:15); Lance Stephenson (29:15); Being traded to the Wizards and getting hurt (33:30); George Hill’s ranch (38:35); appearance by Ava, his first daughter (43:40); selflessly playing power forward (44:20); how a lot of people want to be basketball players, but a lot of people don’t want to play basketball (44:55); what Indy means to him (49:30).

The show is back. I know it's been nearly a month since my last episode ... but there's a reason. Pacers players have all made their way back to town, are tested every other day and will fly down to Disney's Wide World of Sports in one week. On this episode, I'll explain why I've been off the grid for a few weeks, how I'm still considering my next move ... and I'll touch on key points surrounding the NBA's restart. Follow Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Subscribe Apple | Spotify | YouTube

Current Colts beat reporter for The Athletic Stephen Holder joins Scott to talk about his time covering the NFL and NBA, as well as the many interesting jobs he had on his path to becoming a sports journalist.

Scott Agness and Dave DuFour discuss the many scenarios that have been put forward for the structuring of the return of the NBA, and how the Pacers figure into them.

Scott is joined by former Pacers Team Performance Psychologist and current Director of Performance Psychology & Team Behavioral Health Clinician of the Green Bay Packers Dr. Chris Carr to talk about the work that he does with sports teams.

Scott Agness is joined by the Pacers fan, whose image has become the latest viral meme from episode nine of 'The Last Dance', to talk about what it is to become a meme in a sports-less world and what it was like to be a fan at those Pacers games of old.

Bob Kravitz joins Scott Agness to talk about the strategies for bringing the NBA back that have been floating around and to revisit the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals between the Bulls and Pacers.

Scott is joined by Indiana Pacers head coach Nate McMillan for an exclusive interview. Coach McMillan discusses how he as a coach is working and coaching during quarantine. Then coach dives into his background: how fear of failure nearly ended his basketball career before it began and playing against the Jordan era Bulls.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Mike Smeltz to discuss what exactly basketball may look when/if it comes back this season, how the TV product could be drastically different and how the Pacers are spending their time off-the-court. Plus - what lessons the NBA may learn from the NFL Draft.

Scott first delivers major takeaways from a conference call with Indiana Pacers' GM Kevin Pritchard. Then (4:00) Scott is joined by former longtime Pacer Jeff Foster to update on Foster's life right now, a look back from his 13 seasons with the Pacers and some what-if scenarios over that time. At (30:18) we have the full Kevin Pritchard conference call with reporters today.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to look back at a month ago the crazy few days that shutdown the NBA. Plus a review of the Pacers this season: which Pacer exceeded expectations and which underperformed.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to dive into which sports figures should be in Indiana's Sports Hall of Fame, as laid out in a project here at The Athletic.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Detroit Pistons reporter James Edwards III to jump into the time machine to take another look at Pistons-Pacers Game 2 2004 NBA Eastern Conference Finals aka the Tayshaun Prince Block game. Then at (27:00) Scott is joined by former Pacer Lavoy Allen for some much needed levity.

In a special episode - Scott takes a look at the impact of the sportsworld-wide suspension of play. First, Scott is joined by the Indiana Pacers PA announcer Tim Sinclair to talk about how contract workers with the team, like himself, are handling the suspension. And then Scott is joined by IUPUI women's basketball coach Austin Parkinson on a dream season cut short.

Scott is joined by Jeff Stotts, founder of InStreetClothes.com, to run through all the key details to know about each and every injured Indiana Pacers

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks reporter Eric Nehm to talk about the Bucks-Pacers game, how the Bucks have avoided drama this year, the creation of their defense and more.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk about how the Pacers will have to adapt to Jeremy Lamb being done for the year, plus answering listener questions from twitter.

Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness takes listeners inside All-Star weekend in Chicago with a series of interviews including with Pacers center Myles Turner, Basketball Hall of Fame finalist Tamika Catchings, Pacers VP of Marketing Todd Taylor and Tautvydas Sabonis, brother of Pacers All-Star Domantas Sabonis

Scott is joined by Seth Partnow, former Milwaukee Bucks Director of Basketball Research and current basketball analyst for The Athletic, to take a look at what the numbers say about the Indiana Pacers as the NBA heads into the All-Star break.

Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness talks with Pacers pro scout Pat Knight, son of Bob Knight. Pat reveals the behind-the-scenes story that led to Bob Knight's emotional return to Indiana this past weekend.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to go through the biggest observations from Victor Oladipo's long-awaited return to the Indiana Pacers. How Oladipo looked, that big shot, his impact on the team, and what has to be done going forward to get Oladipo back to speed.

Special episode of Fieldhouse Files ahead of Victor Oladipo's return to the Indiana Pacers' lineup. Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to talk about expectations for Oladipo and the Pacers. Then hear from Oladipo himself, plus coach Nate McMillan on how the team will integrate the Pacers' star back into the lineup.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk over whether Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon are worthy of being All-Stars. Then trade deadline buzz: will the Pacers make a deal, for who if so, and which Eastern Conference rivals may go all-in on the trade market.

Scott is joined by Fox Sports Indiana Pacers TV Analyst Eddie Gill to review the Pacers at the midway point in the season. Also discussed Gill's extensive overseas basketball career and what it is like being the dad of two kids who are having successful HS/college careers

Scott is joined by David DeLooper, who just visited Indy as part of his goal to see 30 NBA games in 30 nights in 30 different cities. David goes into what is driving him to do this basketball marathon, the key to getting on the jumbotron, and his thoughts on the experience inside NBA arenas

Special episode of Fieldhouse Files: Victor Oladipo's return date is officially set, January 29th against the Bulls. That news was broken by the Athletic's Shams Charania. Shams joined Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness to talk about his interview with Victor, and what to expect from the Pacers' star. Then (13:00) You'll hear in full a press conference Victor held where he explained why this month is the right time to return.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to dig into the mailbag to answer listener and Athletic subscriber questions all about the Pacers, including exactly what to expect to Victor Oladipo when he returns to the team and what role will he play.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Mike Smeltz to run through 12 big questions facing the Pacers this season: when Victor Oladipo may come back, what will he look like, biggest surprises, biggest concerns, and much much more.

Scott Agness and Dave DuFour on the Pacers phenomenal week, beating the Celtics and the Lakers. The unique defensive scheme the Pacers have installed. What is contributing to the team's early season success without Victor Oladipo. And a new update on Oladipo's possible return.

Scott is joined by Dave DuFour to talk about Paul George's 'I'm not the one to boo,' comment in his return to Indianapolis. Scott adds some context to those comments, how truthful they are and who George may be alluding to

Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness is joined by Dave DuFour to pull back and look at what we've learned about the Pacers 20 games into the season. The improvement Domantas Sabonis has made, the surprising production of Malcolm Brogdon, and INJURIES

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to run through the Indiana Pacers All-Decade team of the 2010s.

Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness runs through some key statistics about the Pacers early on in this season, (9:00) takes listeners inside the big City Edition jersey reveal at Indy Motor Speedway, then (16:00) updates on key injury situations including sound from Victor Oladipo.

Special crossover episode as Scott joined The Athletic's daily news podcast - The Lead - where Scott examines how Thingamajig from The Masked Singer is most likely the Pacers' Victor Oladipo.

Scott is joined by The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks reporter Eric Nehm to talk all about Malcolm Brogdon: his time in Milwaukee, how it came to an end, how he became a Pacer, and the impact of the deal on both teams this season. Plus at 35:30 Scott has a quick 1-on-1 interview with Malcolm Brogdon about his upcoming matchup against the Bucks this Saturday.

Scott Agness and Dave DuFour assess the Pacers after a 0-3 start, followed up a 3 game winning streak. Injuries are piling up, what the team is going to do to replace that production.

In Brooklyn after the Pacers’ first win of the season, Scott catches up with Michael Grady, the Brooklyn Nets sideline reporter for YES Network. The Indy native discusses covering the Nets with two superstars, what he’s seen from the Pacers and how he misses hosting a sports talk show in his hometown.

Emergency episode of the Fieldhouse Files as Domas Sabonis signs a 4 year extension with the Indiana Pacers. Fieldhouse Files host and The Athletic's Pacers reporter Scott Agness is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to break down what the deal means for the Pacers going forward.

Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness, Indiana Pacers reporter for The Athletic, is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk who needs to excel for the Pacers to excel and all the Victor Oladipo scenarios

Welcome to Fieldhouse Files, a podcast all about the Indiana Pacers hosted by The Athletic's Pacers reporter Scott Agness.

The Pacers’ season ended in disappointing fashion, a 4-0 sweep to the Celtics in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. Ten days after their final game of the season, president Kevin Pritchard and head coach Nate McMillan met with the media to discuss their year, mostly without star Victor Oladipo, and what sets up to be a very busy and fascinating offseason. To discuss all of that, Bob Kravitz of The Athletic Indiana joins the podcast. Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Takeaways from Pritchard and McMillan’s comments * Whether they afford to re-sign Bojan Bogdanovic * How they go about building the roster with just six players under contract * Positions needing addressed and possible targets in free agency * Thad Young’s future * Can Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis work in tandem

BOSTON — The Pacers dropped Game 1 in Boston, 84-74. The third quarter, in which they missed 17 of 19 shots and scored only eight points, was their worst single quarter in franchise playoff history. They managed just 29 points in the second half – a total of 24 minutes. Not good. So that’s what a I wrote about after Game 1. Jared Weiss covers the Celtics for The Athletic in Boston. He joined me to discuss Game 1 and to look ahead to the rest of the series. Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Bojan Bogdanovic’s development and what the Pacers need from him * What one Pacer must step up for them to be successful * Evaluating the Pacers’ bigs * Why Jared believes Al Horford is the best player in the series * Cory Jospeh’s success against Boston * Jaylen Brown’s trash-talking * Wesley Matthews defending Kyrie

The Pacers Podcast is back, right in time for the 2019 NBA postseason. They finished the season with a record identical to last season, 48-34, and they did it despite two-time All-Star Victor Oladipo only appearing in 36 games. So, the Pacers are the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference and are matched up against No. 4 Boston (49-33). It is their first time meeting in the playoffs since 2005. To preview the series, my colleague at The Athletic, Bob Kravitz, joined me for this episode — which was recorded on Friday after practice. I will be with the Pacers on the road in Boston (and throughout the playoffs) for coverage on TheAthletic.com. Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * The Celtics losing Marcus Smart for the series * Who Bob believes are the two most important players in the series * The significance (or not) of home-court advantage for Boston * How Oladipo’s injury impacted what the front office did at the trade deadline * Myles Turner’s season * Brad Stevens having to mange egos for the first time * Why Bob says it’s the Celtics’ series to lose

Before Victor Oladipo was traded during the 2017 offseason, he was already two months into his offseason program. And for the first time, he completed it down in Miami at DBC Fitness with David Alexander. On the suggestion from Dwyane Wade, Oladipo worked out five days a week with the sports performance trainer who trains dozens of elite athletes, including Wade. “Nothing we do is standard,” Alexander explained on the podcast. “We’ve done a great job of looking at what the industry is doing and kind of going the opposite way. “You got to get comfortable being uncomfortable.” Initially, sweeping changes were made to Oladipo’s nutrition — which led to this side-by-side photo after just three weeks. “The number one thing was dialing into his nutrition,” Alexander says, “eliminating all flour, refined sugars, gluten – things that we knew would inflame his body. When he came in – I’ve probably said it a million times – he was very inflamed upon his first day entering our facility. So for us, it was to calm all that down, to try to flush out all the inflammation, get all the toxins out of his body, and to start to educate him on what real food is and what should be going into his temple and what shouldn’t.” Beginning with the 2017-18 season, Oladipo began carrying a gallon jug of water around — throughout the practice facility, to media interviews and other obligations. It became a lifestyle of Oladipo, who turned 26 in May. “The hydration plays a big factor,” Alexander emphasized. “The minimum we were starting him on was about three liters of water a day and we graduated him to a gallon of water a day, which he knocks back no problem now.” After one summer of work with Alexander, who is 42 and has been in the industry for 21 years, Oladipo posted his best season yet on the basketball floor. His numbers were up across the board. So he followed it up with another summer in Miami. “This guy is 100 percent comfortable and confident at who Victor Oladipo is and I think that gives him an edge,” Alexander said. “His confidence in knowing who he is I think is going to really translate onto the court this year and I think the public is going to be in for a treat watching that kid play.” View this post on Instagram @vicoladipo •PHASE 3 And we still got plenty of work to do. 3 planes of motion. I train my athletes to become the most efficient athlete possible. #Progression #NewSeason #NewGoals A post shared by David Alexander (@dzandertraining) on Jul 13, 2018 at 12:54pm PDT Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * The focus on nutrition and what was eliminated immed...

Myles Turner spent the majority of the offseason down in Texas. It was home, away from distractions, and allowed for him to focus on himself. He was preparing for the final year of his rookie deal — and later reached agreement with the Pacers on a four-year extension that guaranteed him $72 million. But before then, one of the things he gave his full attention to during those hot summer days in Texas was yoga. At least twice a week, Turner would drive to The Ranch for a private session with Bridget Gibbs, owner of Yoga Body Fort Worth. This was all part of his plan to improve his mind, diet, and strength. Initially, he wasn’t feeling the yoga. However, he soon felt the benefits as they began with trapeze yoga. “I focus on trying to get you out of your head, get you out of your own way and let you be in your mat and teach you how to breath and teach you how to press through the pain, and to take your mind somewhere else,” Gibbs said. “Yoga is not necessarily an exercise; it’s more of a discipline. So we’re disciplining our mind through our body.” It was fascinating to hear Gibbs, who was introduced to Turner this past summer, share her observations of the 22-year-old center and the progress that he made. Click here to read more about it. View this post on Instagram Amazed by your progress in such a short time! Stronger mentally and physically in places you never touch in a gym! You are so much fun to work with @turner_myles you push yourself through the pain with a smile! #yogamen #namaste #selflove #yogiathlete #feeltheyogahigh #stongyogi #trapeze #yogaeverydamnday A post shared by Bridget Gibbs Yoga & YB1 (@bridgetgibbsyoga) on May 29, 2018 at 8:08pm PDT Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * How they were introduced and her initial observations of Myles’ body * Benefits of trapeze and ashtanga yoga * What a typical 90-minute session was like * Domantas Sabonis and assistant Bill Bayno joining for a week

Gordon Hayward’s last year has not been easy. Next Tuesday, Oct. 17, is the one-year anniversary of his unlucky fall in Cleveland that resulted in a broken left tibia and dislocated ankle. Jason Smeathers is Hayward’s friend and skills trainer, and has been with him for most of the last year. In Boston. In Miami. In Indianapolis. In San Diego. Smeathers picked Hayward up for workouts each day, put him through on-court workouts and served as part-time motivator and full-time friend. As part of “The Return” documentary published on The Athletic, I sat down with Smeathers to take you inside their work over the last year, the days where they just weren’t feeling it to the little things that kept them motivated. “Another one down. Great job. We’ll go back after it tomorrow,” Smeathers would often repeat to Hayward. They chose to focus on daily improvement rather than working with the big picture in mind. Improve every day became a motto for Hayward, who is 28 and in the second year of his contract with the Boston Celtics. Episode four of the five-part series focuses on his time spent back home again in Indiana. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * His daily role in working with Gordon and how they were all in it together * How Hayward’s family was prioritized and helped keep him get through it * Their daily routine in Boston and San Diego, which began very early * Focusing on each session rather than a timeline to return * Gordon’s passion for gaming * Gordon’s Grand Gauntlet

Now that the first season of the NBA 2K League is complete, it’s a good time to take a look back at the year for Pacers Gaming. They went 5-9 and finish 13th in a 17-team league that will expand to 21 teams for Year 2. I recently visited the headquarters of Pacers Gaming, the fourth franchise for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Like the Pacers, they work out of the St. Vincent Center – just off Delaware Street in downtown Indianapolis. It is a gorgeous $50 million facility, entirely privately financed, that has been open for just over a year. Pacers Gaming has an outstanding office featuring a great work environment with a dozen computers along with a play area that includes a ping pong table. The league played a 14-week regular season from May through August, plus three tournament. Pacers Gaming just missed out on the playoffs so their season ended on August 11. Teams consist of six players and for this group, it was the first time that 67 percent of the players on the roster played with others in the same room. They’re used to being at their homes and on their own. Cody Parrent is the head coach and the director of PS&E’s eSports operation. To stay up to date on the game and what skills are valuable, he plays NBA 2K at least several hours each day. On this podcast, you’ll hear my conversation with Parrent about the opening season, the highs and the lows, and what they’re working towards for Year 2. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Year 1 in the 17-team NBA 2K League * Strategically changing players’ archetypes, including first-round pick WoLF * Dealing with a work Visa (for vGooner) and another player leaving early into the year * The challenge of traveling to New York every week for games * Their state-of-the-art facility that made other teams envious * League expansion, launch of 2K 19, and the upcoming draft combine

It’s time for another Pacers Podcast! On this podcast, I’ll discuss my new job. Yeah … you read that correctly. You may know about it by now — and surely you have since I no longer write about the Pacers here on VigilantSports.com — but last month I officially joined The Athletic as their Pacers writer. The Athletic is the home of outstanding journalism where they prioritize the reader and the story — and don’t bother you with ads, pop-ups, meaningless video, and other things that upset readers. I’m fired up to be part of a wonderful team. The Pacers, meanwhile, have plenty of reasons to be excited for the new season. They open training camp in one week and then will tip-off the 2018-19 season at home in exactly one month against the Memphis Grizzlies. They have four preseason games but none at home (rejoice!), so you’re only chance to see this team before opening night will be at FanJam on Sept. 30 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Players are returning to Indy this week. It’s their last week of freedom. By now, vacations are over, coaches are back in the office, and they are working away preparing for the new season. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Moving over to The Athletic, still covering all things Pacers * Schedule release, which includes 12 national TV appearances * Victor Oladipo hosting his teammates to Miami * Nate McMillan signing a contract extension * Ben Moore signing a one-year, partially guaranteed deal

You might as well refer to the Pacers as the Indiana Bruins. Especially so in future years when former Bruins players Aaron Holiday, T.J. Leaf, and Ike Anigobgu take on larger roles on the team. For now, they’re two 21-year-olds and a 19-year-old with goals to be in the NBA for the next decade. Coach David Grace is one of the key individuals behind the scenes that helped land those three at UCLA, playing under head coach Steve Alford. (He also took the lead in the recruitment of 2017 Indiana Mr. Basketball North Central High School product Kris Wilkes playing at UCLA.) Grace was at UCLA for five seasons and then took a job at Cal in mid-April. Grace grew up in Maryland and the spent 20 years in the military. Since, he’s been out west coaching basketball – with stops at Sacramento State, San Francisco, Oregon, State, and UCLA before Cal. On this podcast, I talk with Grace about those Bruins, from recruiting them to UCLA and what they need to do to take their games to another level. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * T.J. Leaf, his ties to Indiana, and what he needs to become * His communication with NBA teams and scouts visiting practice * Recruiting Aaron Holiday and what he’s like off the court * How Holiday was a team player, backing up Lonzo Ball after starting his freshman season * Ike Anigbogu as a teenager and what he could develop into — if healthy

Joe Young, the Pacers’ second-round pick in 2015, has found a new team. The 26-year-old guard has agreed to a one-year deal with the Nanjing Tongxi Monkey King of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), Young told VigilantSports.com. “Got things finalized and just truly honored about this opportunity,” Young said. “Great team, great coach. I heard a lot of great things about the organization. Me and my team came together and decided what was best for me at this particularly time. … I know it’s a different pace. At the end of the day, basketball is basketball and I just have to adjust to it.” Another former Pacer, Al Jefferson, will be playing in the same league. After the Pacers waived the veteran center in early July, he weighed his options, including returning to the Pacers, but decided to sign with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers. Young said he spoke to his former locker neighbor before making his decision. “I had a great conversation with Al. He basically gave me good advice. He told me you got to do what’s best for you and the family, and how the NBA works – if there’s no roster spots, you have to find you a job. Until then, that’s what I’m doing [in China]. “I really have to mature even more. And that’s not even a bad thing to even go over there; I know people might say it is. It’s a great deal and I’m truly honored about this opportunity. And I’m blessed, I just want to thank God for keeping me with a positive mindset to go out there every day and put my best step forward.” Young, a Houston native, was drafted 43rd overall in the 2015 NBA Draft, joining fellow rookie Myles Turner in Indianapolis. He appeared in 53 games last season with the Pacers, averaging 3.9 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. He shot 43 percent from the field and 37.9 percent from three-point land, and said it was made clear during his exit interview that he wasn’t part of the team’s future. The Pacers declined to pick up their option on the fourth year of Young’s deal, making him a free agent. “I really thank them for everything they did for me, drafting me. It’s truly an honor to get an opportunity that every kid dreams for. I will always thank the Pacers for drafting me,” he said.” Young will spend the next few weeks at home. He’s expecting his second child, Joseph Jr., to arrive on Aug. 10. Soon after, he will go to Chicago for workouts with guard Patrick Beverley of the Los Angeles Clippers. The two share an agent (Kevin Bradbury of BDA Sports Management) and Beverley played overseas from 2008-2012 before securing a roster spot with the Houston Rockets in 2013. Young will then fly to China on September 8th. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Why going to China is best for him * Free agency and how it was not a robust market * Expecting his second child and first son, and passing down his name * How Myles is the last remaining Pacer from when he was drafted in 2015 * Whether he considered a two-way contract or playing in the G League * Working out at P3 Sports Science in Santa Barbara and how he’s determined to improve defensively [Photo: Frank McGrath/PS&E]

What was the feeling in Croatia when they played in the FIFA World Cup Final over the weekend? I had to find out. On this episode of the Pacers Podcast, I called up former Pacer forward Damjan Rudež, a native of Zagreb, Croatia. While he’s not a huge soccer fan, the monthlong run by Croatia, with a population just over 4.1 million people, was special and impactful for the professional basketball player. France ultimately won, 4-2. Rudež, who’s 32 years old, has represented his country several times in international competition, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a FIBA World Cup. But this was different. This was memorable — and he explains why. “This is more than I’ve ever felt proud in my life. I swear. I can’t even tell you. It’s the state of catharsis and exhilaration.” He was a little excited, can’t you tell? FINALE!!!!!!!!!!! 🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉— Damjan Rudež (@Damjan_Rudez) July 11, 2018 This was part of the celebration. Writing ✍️ history #comingbacktozagreb #wordcup pic.twitter.com/sU11SdTJVZ— Rok Stipcevic (@RStipcevic) July 16, 2018 Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * The emotions sweeping Croatia after their fun to the World Cup Final * The homecoming celebration for the team, the streets filled with 300,000-plus fans * Whether he communicated with any ex-teammates from France, like Ian Mahinmi * Playing three years in the NBA * The process of finding a team overseas and recently signing with UCAM Murcia

Final preparations are underway at the St. Vincent Center in downtown Indianapolis as a dozen or so in player evaluation push to gather additional intel on players and who teams ahead of the Pacers may draft. After going 48-34 and losing a four-way tiebreaker to decide the draft order, the Pacers will select 23rd and 50th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, which will be held Thursday evening at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. ESPN will again be televising the two-round draft, which will begin after 7:00 pm ET. The Pacers visited with players at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, the NBA Global Camp in Treviso, Italy, and 29 draft hopefuls who came to Indianapolis for a workout. The pre-draft workouts are less about the workout and primarily about three things: 1) Getting to know them better, especially in an off-court setting over lunch, 2) Medical evaluation, 3) Building a relationship. Victor Oladipo is the star of the team, named to the All-Defensive First Team and Third Team All-NBA last month. He had a career year in his fifth season as a pro, a friendly reminder that it takes time and for a player to be in the right environment for a player to excel as Oladipo, the second overall pick in 2013, has. Ryan Carr heads up the Pacers’ 365-day scouting operation. The Indiana University grad began with the franchise as a video intern for Larry Bird when he became head coach (1997), and then the Sumner, Washington native returned to the franchise when Bird became President of Basketball Operations in 2003. One year ago, he was promoted from Director of Scouting to Director of Player Personnel. As he joked on Tuesday, Carr was allowed out of his scouting cave to visit with media ahead of Thursday’s draft, where they are looking for fit as much as talent. “We feel like we’d like to build a team where the sum is bigger than the parts,” he said. “When a guy like Victor buys into that and is that kind of player and person, it really helps a lot.” This will be the first draft where Kevin Pritchard has been team president the entire year leading up to it. Bird stepped down and into an advisor role on May 1, 2017 and Pritchard was promoted. Bird enjoys watching basketball and evaluating players so he has been present for the six pre-draft workouts. Watch Carr’s full comments, and read his answers to key questions below:  On his feelings before the draft: “There’s good players at 23. We’re trying to figure out who exactly will be there, based on intel and what other teams like. It’s a good draft. I’d say it’s a little deeper than probably what we thought at the start of the year as different kids emerge and show that they’ve gotten better.” On Thad Young’s Player Option and how not knowing his decision might impact what they do: No, as far as I know, we don’t [know what he’s going to do]. I think in the draft, we’re drafting in the 20s, you’re trying to find the player that has the best chance to be an NBA player – at least a rotation player. I don’t think you’re too worried about trying to fit a certain guy in, not in the 20s. If you look at the statistics over the year on hits and misses in the draft, you better pick the guy that you think has the best chance of having a career [in the NBA]. On whether there is an importance on drafting a player who ready to contribute: This year, you’re balancing one-and-dones with overseas guys with four-year college guys.

Pacers All-Star Victor Oladipo will drive the 2019 Chevrolet pace car to start Sunday’s Indianapolis 500. He’s the first active Indianapolis athlete and just the third non-racing athlete to be given that honor. Oladipo is arriving in Indianapolis on Friday and will get his first chance behind the ZR1 Pace Car. Chevrolet flew in Ron Fellows from Las Vegas to trainer Oladipo ahead of Sunday. On this podcast, I sit down with Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles to discuss Oladipo’s involvement in the largest one-day sporting event in the world. “One of our biggest challenges every year is who should drive the pace car,” Boles explained. “You want somebody who makes a statement, somebody that people recognize, and we started thinking through it. And for what Victor Oladipo did with the team, really what the entire team did and the way they represented the city of Indianapolis around the country, we thought here’s a guy that’s local, but on a national stage. “He’s a perfect guy to drive our pace car and we can’t wait. It’s almost to the Pacers for the way they represented us this year.” The 8-speed car has more horsepower (755) than an Indy Car, and can go 0-to-60 in 2.85 seconds. There’s a learning curve to it, and Oladipo with have former IndyCar driver Sarah Fisher by his side. I’m honored to lead the #Indy500 field in the @TeamChevy Pace Car this Memorial Day weekend come out and support and I will see you there!!! @Pacers fans wave to me from @IMS grandstands on Race Day.— Victor Oladipo (@VicOladipo) May 17, 2018 Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Why Oladipo is a great fit * The selection process between IMS and Chevrolet * How Oladipo becomes an ambassador for the event * Oladipo being the first active pro athlete in Indy to do so * Chevrolet is flying Ron Fellows, their top performance driver trainer

Dave McMenamin is on the Cleveland Cavaliers beat, covering all things LeBron James and the Cavs for ESPN. The Pacers’ first-round series begins in Cleveland where they’ll try to beat LeBron James in the playoffs for the first time. He’s ended their postseason run in five of the last seven years. The Pacers, meanwhile, are pushing the underdog role, which suits them. Nobody picked them to have a successful season and here they are in the playoffs, in the 4 vs 5 matchup. “Everyone is watching,” Lance Stephenson said. “We’re all up for this (series). It’s going to be challenging, it’s going to be hard, but I think we’re set for it.” Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Drama, mid-season changes, and JR Smith throwing soup at a coach * LeBron and Lance * The Pacers embracing being the underdogs * Both teams excelling in late-game situations * Nate McMillan vs Ty Lue * Kevin Love and the stigma around mental health

When there is something going on with the Golden State Warriors, Anthony Slater is one of the best sources for information and context. He’s in his fifth season covering the NBA and his second on the Warriors beat. His first three seasons, beginning in 2013, were in Oklahoma City documenting Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and all things Thunder. This season, he’s doing it on a new, rising platform: The Athletic. It’s a subscription sports outlet and the Bay Area has been wildly successful. It helps that the Warriors are the talk of the NBA, featured four All-Stars and a likable coach, have faced the Cleveland Cavaliers in the last three NBA Finals, and the website signed the authoritative Warriors writers, Slater and longtime beat reporter Marcus Thompson. Slater is also consistent. After each game, you can expect: 1) postgame video interviews on Twitter, 2) a Stock Report video, 3) a thorough Five Observations piece, and 4) an All-82 podcast. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Why he joined The Athletic and how a subscription model is the future * Why he used to fear going behind a paywall (6:44) * How knowing both sides of Durant has benefited his coverage (7:48) * How the Warriors have empowered players with media (10:13) * The media-friendly Steve Kerr and managing back pain (16:47) * His thoughts on the Pacers, the biggest surprise this season (19:40) * Former Pacer David West (26:20)

The Pacers are 46-31, a season-best 15 games over .500 with five to play. They’re flirting with their second 50-win season since 2004 and have spent all season flying under the radar. Because of that, they have appeared on national TV just once — and that was for Paul George’s return. So Chris Denari and the entire FOX Sports Indiana crew has had the honor of providing the visuals for every game this season. Out west on a 10-day road trip, I recorded this podcast with Denari before he joined the team in a ballroom at the hotel to watch the NCAA Championship game between Michigan and Villanova. In his 12th year as the TV Voice of the Pacers, he has been with them every step of the way and offers a unique perspective. Practice winding down in Denver. #Pacers and Nuggets tomorrow night on @FSIndiana. Pre-game starts at 8:30. @Pacers look for season-high 6th straight win and a 4-0 road trip. pic.twitter.com/S5E54Duxei— Chris Denari (@ChrisDenari) April 2, 2018 Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Life on the road, being away from family * This Pacers team surprising everyone and outperforming all outside expectations * Success on the road, and hitting their stride to start March * Key league awards, and consideration for Nate McMillan and Kevin Pritchard * This group’s resiliency and composure late in games * Why predictions are lame * Lastly, we answered questions from Twitter.

The Pacers secured a playoff spot Sunday in Game 74 of the season. They beat the Miami Heat 113-107 getting contributions across the roster. It was a microcosm for their entire season. In the media room hours after the Pacers’ 43rd win of the season, surpassing last year’s total (42-40), Mark Montieth joined me to record this podcast. You can read Mark’s work at Pacers.com, MarkMontieth.com, and look into his book, “Reborn,” on the early days of pro basketball in Indiana. (Click here to listen to our podcast about it.) Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Clinching a playoff spot * The players thriving off the doubt from outside the locker room * Domantas Sabonis unlucky in re-injuring his ankle * Darren Collison’s undervalued contributions * Final portion of their schedule with six of eight games on the road [Photo: Frank McGrath/PS&E]

Seeking depth at power forward, the Pacers added veteran free agent Trevor Booker to their roster officially on March 3. After the Pacers concluded a four-game road trip, Booker watched the team beat Milwaukee on the second night of a back-to-back before practicing with the guys for the first time. “He’s first and foremost a great guy,” said Bojan Bogdanovic, a teammate of Booker’s last season in Brooklyn. “He’s the guy that we’ve missed that can fit perfectly in our system. We are switching a lot with the three and four so he’s also able to guard all of these quick guards. I think it’s a great addition for us. He’s a great defender, a great rebounder. He can be huge for us and I think he will.” Booker has averaged 6.9 points and 5.5 rebounds per game in eight seasons as a pro. The 30-year-old, 6-foot-8 power forward who will provide toughness and rebounding inside, then made his debut in a Pacers uniform on March 7th against the Utah Jazz, a team he played for from 2014-16. He had two points and two rebounds, but followed it up with eight points and eight rebounds the following night. After his first game with the Pacers, I spoke with Booker in the locker room. Read that Q&A and/or listen to the podcast below. On facing a former team, Utah, in his first with the Pacers: It was pretty cool. I still remember their sets so I was calling them out while I was out there. It was just cool to play against those guys again and see some familiar faces. What has the transition been like for you? The good news is you should be well rested playing your first game in the days. Yeah it’s been different. It’s my third team this year so it’s definitely something different. But it’s something that I’m embracing. This team has welcomed me with open arms and they’re making an easy for me. Being your third team this season, is that something you take personal or just understand that it comes with the business — and this time, you were able to be selective in when you ended up? If you know the business you don’t take it personally. You can’t take it personal. Many teams were wanting me after I got bought out so I understand the business side of things. I’m just happy to be with a team that wanted me and that’s where I wanted to be. What was the process like for you in deciding, maybe making calls. Did you call Bojan [Bogdanovic] at all to get a feel for this locker room? Nah, I didn’t talk to him. But I talked to other people that knew the players and got a good feel for how my teammates were and how the locker room was. What were some of the key ingredients that went into this decision? Just lookin at style of play for one. How great of a locker room it was, how positive the team was. So all of those were factors. [Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts] What have you done to try to accelerate the learning curve and quicken your study of this team? Just trying to learn plays every day. I’m going over the playbook and trying to find chemistry with my teammates. You probably already know personnel just from facing everyone. But maybe the habits and the playbook are maybe the two most important things. Yeah, definitely so. I’m a big basketball guy so I watch League Pass every night so I’m pretty familiar with my teammates already. It’s just about building that chemistry though. Is that something that you think will remain a challenge over the next two months as it’s really hard to make up in such a short time? I don’t see it as a challenge because they’re helping me out a lot. They’re making it easy for me.

David Benner is in his 24th season as the Director of Media Relations for the Indiana Pacers. He’s the primary contact between the media and the team. Benner, however, has been both sides. He spent 16 years as a writer for the Indianapolis Star, including eight years covering the Pacers. He moved over to his present role with the team in 1994, replacing Dale Ratermann. That transition included many changes for David, like an upgrade in his wardrobe. He got his start working in sports as a manager for the Center Grove High School boys basketball team while a sophomore. “I’ve kind of been involved in sports ever since that,” he says. Benner and his PR staff — that includes Krissy Myers and Wes Kaminski — twice (2010-11, 2012-13) has been the recipient of the annual Brian McIntyre Media Relations Award for consistently going above and beyond the call of duty to work cooperatively with the local and national media. On this podcast, you’ll get to know Benner, one of the many faces behind the scenes. You may remember him for his famous pregame routine with Reggie Miller, who was superstitious so Benner had to deliver a Pepsi courtside and talk trash to him before each game. Benner has worked daily with players like Ron Artest and Jeff Foster, coaches Larry Brown, Isiah Thomas, Rick Carlisle, and Frank Vogel, plus Larry Bird – the coach and executive. Among the individuals the Indiana native has enjoyed working with is longtime executive Donnie Walsh, who had this advice in regards to not addressing hires and signings until … they are truly final. “Until the thing is signed on a dotted line, it hasn’t happened.” Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * His start at the Indianapolis Star as a copy boy – the best grunt work of his life * Working alongside and with his older brother, Bill – at The Star and now again with the Pacers * Transitioning from beat reporting to media relations * Herb Simon and how his ownership style hasn’t changed * NBA Twitter and media sourcing * How this Pacers team may be the best group of all * Stories on previous players, including Reggie and Ron Ron * Labeling injured players as “interns” * What he’d like to see change in media coverage

It will be eight weeks on Friday, March 2 since Slick Leonard, alone in his church’s parking lot, slipped on ice when unloading boxes to recycle. He forgot to put his car in park, slipped, and shattered the trochanter in one of his hips and says the pain has been “a monster.” Slick was admitted to a central Indiana hospital and placed in room 529, the same number of wins he has as Pacers head coach. “I don’t think anybody wants to be locked up [inside] like this. I think in my lifetime, I can’t ever remember being laid up this long.” The Hall of Famer isn’t exactly sure when he’ll be back but he does feel better each day as the pain decreases. He has been extra cautious, though, since going into cardiac arrest on the Pacers bus at Madison Square Garden back in March, 2011. Since that time, he has not traveled to road games for radio broadcasts. Leonard, in his 32nd season as the radio analyst on the Pacers Radio Network, looks forward to rejoining Mark Boyle, who he believes is the best play-by-play radio announcer in the league, behind the microphone soon. “I’ll be back,” Leonard said. View this post on Instagram Hanging out with Slick in his hospital room. He’s doing well. Check out the room number. Amazing. A post shared by Mark Joseph Boyle (@mark_j_boyle) on Jan 7, 2018 at 11:50am PST Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * On his fall and what went through his mind * How he’s stayed busy – with friends and watching the NBA * Not taking any day for granted at 85 years old * His cardiac arrest episode in New York * Visits from his work partner, Mark Boyle

Kurt Streblow is in his fifth season as an emcee for Pacers home games at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. This past week, he was invited to emcee several events at All-Star Weekend 2018 held in Los Angeles. Streblow credits Pacers Vice President of Game Operations Dean Heaviland for not only hiring him years ago, but for also recommending him to the league to be one of several emcees across the 30-team league to contribute at the NBA’s featured annual event. On Friday, he worked the Rising Stars practice that included Pacers center Domantas Sabonis. The next day, he hosted the Special Olympics Unified game and then later All-Star practice. In all, he spent six days in Los Angeles. Remember, Indianapolis will host All-Star Weekend in 2021. Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. View this post on Instagram Interviewing the @pacers Rising Star, Domantas Sabonis! #nba #indianapacers #nbaallstar #kickstartrisingstars #emcee #host A post shared by Kurt Streblow (@kurtstreblow) on Feb 16, 2018 at 4:38pm PST View this post on Instagram 🔥 @sirfoster #nba #allstarweekend #thisiswhyweplay A post shared by Kurt Streblow (@kurtstreblow) on Feb 19, 2018 at 7:31pm PST Topics Discussed: * How he first got started with the Pacers, despite an early hiccup * Chemistry with the Pacers’ VP of Game Operations and how helpful that is * The unfamiliar aspect to the job that was a challenge he overcame * Why he wore Pacers gear throughout All-Star Weekend * The importance of social media in his field * What more he would like to do

Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard spoke with the media for more than 25 minutes Sunday afternoon before they hosted the New York Knicks. Among the items discussed: * Many players urging the front office to keep this group intact * How they had three legitimate trade offers at the deadline * Victor Oladipo exceeding all expectations * Domantas Sabonis’ development * Glenn Robinson III’s rehab and timeline to return * High value of first-round picks  If you prefer to simply listen to Pritchard, you can do so below:

Edmond Sumner’s rookie season has been anything but typical for a first-year player in professional basketball. He suffered a torn ACL last year while at Xavier University, so most of 2017 was spent rehabbing and getting through the mental challenges of being away from the game he loves. The Pacers acquired a second second-round pick on draft night and used the pick from New Orleans to select Sumner 52nd overall. Because of the injury, he was still around then. Sumner became the first player in Pacers franchise history to be signed to a two-way contract, which allows him to be part of the Pacers and Mad Ants of the G League — and it prevents another NBA club from signing them to their roster like can be done for G League contracts. Sumner returned to game action two weeks ago and has appeared in five games, though he is limited to about 15 minutes per game. He is averaging 6.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting nearly 42 percent from the field. See Also: Sumner signs with new agent It was good to catch up with the 22-year-old guard to discuss the highs and lows of his rookie season, plus how he’s getting along with the Mad Ants. Looking forward to that 2018 return 👀 pic.twitter.com/paaLgWW0yO— Edmond Sumner (@EdmondSumner) December 31, 2017 Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * The challenge of rehab and returning from injury * Rookie duties * His movie watching, and music preference before games * Following his 20-3 Xavier Musketeers from afar * Glenn Robinson III joining the Mad Ants for a game

Victor Oladipo’s phone buzzed Tuesday. It was Pacers President Kevin Pritchard, the executive who orchestrated the move that brought Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis to Indy last summer. He had the honor of alerting Oladipo that he was voted an All-Star reserve by NBA head coaches. For the first time in his five years as a pro, he would participate in the game showcasing the world’s best basketball players. “Fitting that he would call me first,” Oladipo said Wednesday morning. “It’s awesome. It was a great moment for me. It was just special, just hearing from him and hearing his words and everything like that was a special moment – something I’ll never forget.” See Also: Oladipo’s teammates react to his All-Star selection Watch his full comments below:

Damien Wilkins was released by the Pacers one week ago, just before his contract became guaranteed for the rest of the season. What he did, earning a roster spot, and the impact he was able to have with the Pacers in a little more than four months was special. Here’s a sample from starting center Myles Turner on Wilkins no longer being on the team: [sigh] “… That one hit me home a little bit. For him, it wasn’t like a surprise or a low blow, so I respect that from the organization, but as far as me and him – he just talked to me all year. He’s seen this game a lot over the past years. He just wants me to be the best version of myself I can be. A lot of that is just the mental aspect of it and that’s one thing he helped with me a lot.” Wilkins turned 38 years old last Thursday, and more than half of the team made it to a surprise celebration. His story is a good one, returning to the NBA for the first time since 2013 after stops in Beijing, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and the G League. That last game in 2013, he got the start while with Philadelphia — and coincidentally it came at Bankers Life Fieldhouse against the Pacers. Last Friday (Jan. 12), I sat down with Damien and his fiancé, Jasmine, for more than an hour to reflect on his time in Indy and his unique career path. “It’s been crazy, man. But I wouldn’t write the story any different. If I had a chance to write it, I wouldn’t write it any different. And I feel like the past four years, being away from it, this year has made all of that worth it. “The story is far from ending.” In what may have been in final game with the Pacers, on January 6, 2018 against the Chicago Bulls, Wilkins started at the last minute and finished with a season-high 11 points and two rebounds in 22 minutes. “This has been one of the best half years of my career. It has absolutely been amazing.” Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email. Topics Discussed: * Teammates surprising him at birthday party * The awkwardness of knowing he was going to be waived — but none of his teammates did * His impact on the locker room, and specifically on Myles Turner * His Ray Allen story, and getting to the gym three hours early * The strengths of playing for a coach who played in the NBA * His experience playing overseas: in Beijing, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico * Why he sits next to the coaches during games, and whether coaching or working in a front office is in his future * What it meant to be a Pacer and play in Indianapolis [51:50] * What’s next for him

Damien Wilkins knew his fate by 2:00 pm on Saturday, five hours before the Pacers faced the Chicago Bulls at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. What he didn’t know was that he would start in his final game with the team. Bojan Bogdanovic was a late scratch due to a sprained left ankle and head coach Nate McMillan wanted Lance Stephenson to resume playing with the second unit again after he had started in place of an injured Victor Oladipo the past four games. So Wilkins not only played in his final game with the Pacers, but he also started. It was his first start since 2013 — with the Philadelphia 76ers, in Indianapolis of all places. Wilkins met with President Kevin Pritchard and General Manager Chad Buchanan after practice on Sunday. Then, after more than an hour, he met with reporters before taking the elevator down to the first floor of the St. Vincent Center and walking to his car. “I knew yesterday what was happening so it was long day yesterday, as you can imagine, to find out that news before I get to the gym. … It turned out to be a great night for our team and for me personally, it was amazing. I didn’t want the game to end. I just wanted to keep playing. I wish we could still be playing that game right now. “It’s the business of it. It’s the beast of it. I’m proud of myself, though. I told KP [Pacers President Kevin Pritchard], coach, and those guys that. Coming from where I came from, so many people told me that this wasn’t going to happen for me and it did. I proved a lot of people