Indiana Pacers: Difference between revisions

{{Use mdy dates|date=JanuaryMay 20192024}}

| current = 2023–242024–25 Indiana Pacers season

| history = '''Indiana Pacers'''<br />1967–1976 (ABA)<br />1976–present (NBA)<ref>{{cite webnews|last=Montieth|first=Mark|title=YearThe byGreat YearEight withHome theOpeners Pacersin Franchise History|url=httphttps://www.nba.com/pacers/great-eight-home-openers-franchise-history/franchise_history.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220323233130/https://www.nba.com/pacers/history/franchise_history.html|archive-date=MarchAugust 2314, 20222014|access-date=DecemberMay 613, 2022|url-status=dead2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite bookweb|chaptertitle=History:Franchise TeamHistory–NBA byAdvanced TeamStats|chapter-url=https://cdnwww.nba.netcom/assetsstats/pdfs/2018-19-NBA-Guide-10-8.pdf#page=116history|publisher=NBA PropertiesMedia Ventures, Inc.LLC|titlewebsite=2018–19 Official NBA Guide|url=https://cdn.nba.net/assets/pdfs/2018-19-NBA-Guide-10-8.pdf|date=October 8, 2018com|access-date=AprilMay 2013, 2019|archive-date=April 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411200102/https://cdn.nba.net/assets/pdfs/2018-19-NBA-Guide-10-8.pdf|url-status=dead2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=NBA.com/Stats–Indiana Pacers seasons|url=https://www.nba.com/stats/team/1610612754/seasons|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Stats.NBA.com|access-date=December 2, 2022}}</ref>

The '''Indiana Pacers''' are an American professional [[professional basketball]] team based in [[Indianapolis]]. The Pacers compete in the [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA) as a member of the [[Central Division (NBA)|Central Division]] of the [[Eastern Conference (NBA)|Eastern Conference]]. The team was founded in 1967 as an original member of the [[American Basketball Association]] (ABA) and became a member of the NBA in 1976 as a result of the [[ABA–NBA merger]]. They play their home games at [[Gainbridge Fieldhouse]]. The team is named after the state of [[Indiana]]'s history with the [[Indianapolis 500]]'s [[Indianapolis 500 pace cars|pace cars]] and with the [[harness racing]] industry.<ref>{{cite web|title=Origins of the Name "Pacers"|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/origins-name-pacers|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|date=July 18, 2014|access-date=May 7, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Montieth|first=Mark|title=What's in a Name? For the Pacers, Quite a Bit|url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/whats-name-pacers-quite-bit|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|date=June 16, 2016|access-date=September 22, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Early in the Pacers' second season, former [[Indiana Hoosiers men's basketball|Indiana Hoosiers]] standout [[Bobby Leonard|Bob "Slick" Leonard]] became the team's head coach, replacing [[Larry Staverman]]. Leonard quickly turned the Pacers into a juggernaut. His teams were buoyed by the great play of superstars such as [[Mel Daniels]], [[George McGinnis]], [[Bob Netolicky]], [[Rick Mount]], [[Freddie Lewis]] and [[Roger Brown (basketball, born 1942)|Roger Brown]]. The Pacers were the most successful team in ABA history, winning three ABA Championships in four years. In all, they appeared in the ABA Finals five times in the league's nine-year history, which was an ABA record.<ref>{{cite web|title=Remember the ABA: Indiana Pacers|url=http://www.remembertheaba.com/Indiana-Pacers.html}}</ref>

The off-season brought sweeping changes to the Pacers' lineup, as Rik Smits and coach Larry Bird retired, Chris Mullin returned to the [[Golden State Warriors]], Mark Jackson signed a long-term contract with [[Toronto Raptors|Toronto]], and Dale Davis was traded to [[Portland Trail Blazers|Portland]] for [[Jermaine O'Neal]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/basketball/blazers-trade-o-neal-to-pacers-for-davis-1.208795|title=Blazers trade O'Neal to Pacers for Davis|work=CBC Sports|date=31 August 31, 2000|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> who went on to average 12.9&nbsp;points per game in his first year as a starter. It was a rebuilding year for the Pacers under the new head coach [[Isiah Thomas]]. However, the team still managed to return to the [[2001 NBA playoffs|playoffs]], where they lost to the top-seeded [[2000–01 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia 76ers]] in four games.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2001/05/03/sports/nba-roundup-76ers-eliminate-pacers-and-rest-for-round-2.html|title=N.B.A.: ROUNDUP; 76ers Eliminate Pacers And Rest for Round 2|work=The New York Times|agency=The Associated Press|date=3 May 3, 2001|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

In the midseason of [[2001–02 NBA season|2001–02]], the Pacers made a blockbuster trade with the [[Chicago Bulls]] that sent [[Jalen Rose]] and [[Travis Best]] to Chicago in exchange for [[Brad Miller (basketball)|Brad Miller]], [[Ron Artest]], [[Kevin Ollie]] and [[Ron Mercer]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/bulls/news/rose_020219.html|title=Bulls Acquire Rose, Best in Seven-Player Trade|work=NBA|date=19 February 19, 2002|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> In the next few years, Miller and Artest would go on to be All-Stars for the Pacers. The trade bolstered a team that had been floundering, and the Pacers managed to [[2002 NBA playoffs|return to the playoffs]], where they pushed the top-seeded [[2001–02 New Jersey Nets season|New&nbsp;Jersey Nets]] to five games before losing Game&nbsp;5 in double overtime.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/220502017|title=Nets survive two OTs for second series win|date=6 May 6, 2002|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|work=ESPN|location=East Rutherford|agency=The Associated Press}}</ref> [[Jermaine O'Neal]] made his first of what would be several All-Star appearances in his Pacers career.

The Pacers got off to a 13–2 start in [[2002–03 NBA season|2002–03]] but hit the wall after the All-Star break thanks in no small part to Ron Artest's multiple suspensions and family tragedies befalling Jermaine O'Neal, [[Jamaal Tinsley]] and [[Austin Croshere]]. O'Neal and Brad Miller both made the All-Star team, and the Pacers made a substantial improvement as they finished 48–34, but they suffered a loss to the underdog [[2002–03 Boston Celtics season|Boston Celtics]] in the first round of the [[2003 NBA playoffs|playoffs]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/2003/05/02/celtics-finish-off-pacers-with-rout/d4e3f6f2-7021-468e-9910-70ec1ab04f6c/|title=Celtics Finish Off Pacers With Rout|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=2 May 2, 2003|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|last=Goodman|first=Jeff}}</ref>

In the 2003 off-season, the Pacers managed to re-sign O'Neal for the NBA maximum and inked Reggie Miller to a modest two-year deal, but they could not afford to keep their talented center, Brad Miller. He was dealt to the [[Sacramento Kings]] in exchange for [[Scot Pollard]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&id=1584734|title=Pacers set to sign Brad Miller, trade him to Kings|work=ESPN|date=24 July 24, 2003|last=Stein|first=Marc|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> who spent much of the following year watching from the bench and backing up [[Jeff Foster (basketball)|Jeff Foster]]. The Pacers also signed Larry Bird as team president, and Bird wasted little time in dismissing coach Isiah Thomas and replacing him with [[Rick Carlisle]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.basketballnetwork.net/old-school/isiah-thomas-recalls-the-brutal-response-he-got-from-larry-bird-when-he-fired-him-as-the-head-coach-of-the-indiana-pacers|title=Isiah Thomas recalls the brutal response he got from Larry Bird when he fired him as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers|publisher=Basketball Network|date=11 November 11, 2022|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|last=Starjacki|first=Will}}</ref>

The Pacers responded to Carlisle extremely well and had a breakthrough [[2003–04 NBA season|2003–04 season]] in which they finished 61–21, earning the best record in the NBA as well as a franchise record. O'Neal and Artest made the [[2004 NBA All-Star Game|All-Star team]], and Artest was named the [[NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award|NBA's Defensive Player of the Year]]; the Pacers swept the [[2003–04 Boston Celtics season|Boston Celtics]] in the [[2004 NBA playoffs|first round]] and squeezed by the [[2003–04 Miami Heat season|Miami Heat]] in the conference semifinals. But the [[2003–04 Detroit Pistons season|Detroit Pistons]] proved an impediment to Indiana's championship aspirations, as they defeated the Pacers in six games on their way to the [[2004 NBA Finals|NBA Championship]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.retroseasons.com/teams/indiana-pacers/2004/overview/|title=Indiana Pacers 2003-04 Season recap|website=Retroseasons.com|publisher=RetroSeasons|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/240601008|title=Rip, Ben big again for Detroit|date=7 June 7, 2004|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|work=ESPN|location=Auburn Hills|agency=The Associated Press}}</ref>

[[Al Harrington]], a small forward who had established himself as one of the best sixth-men in the NBA, was dealt in the off-season to the [[Atlanta Hawks]] in return for [[Stephen Jackson]] after Harrington allegedly demanded that the Pacers start him or trade him.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nba&id=1840632|title=Pacers deal Harrington to Hawks for Jackson|agency=The Associated Press|work=ESPN|date=15 July 15, 2004|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|location=Indianapolis, IN}}</ref> Nevertheless, the Pacers started off the [[2004–05 NBA season|2004–05 season]] in extremely strong fashion–until November&nbsp;19, 2004. Toward the end of a Pacers victory over the [[2004–05 Detroit Pistons season|Detroit Pistons]] at [[The Palace of Auburn Hills]], the Pacers' [[Metta World Peace|Ron Artest]] committed a hard foul against [[Ben Wallace (basketball)|Ben Wallace]]. Wallace retaliated with a hard push, threw a towel at Artest, and the situation escalated to a [[Pacers-Pistons brawl|full-scale brawl]], with fans and several Pacers taking part. While Artest laid atop the scorer's table trying to calm down and do an interview, Pistons fan John Green (who was sitting next to Wallace's brother) threw a cup of [[Diet Coke]] at Artest, causing him to charge into the stands. [[Stephen Jackson]] followed him into the stands while [[Jermaine O'Neal]] struck a fan who came onto the court. The game was called off with 45.9&nbsp;seconds left on the clock, and the Pacers left the floor amid a shower of beer and other beverages that rained down from the stands.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/sports-brawls-nba-infamous|title=NBA players and fans brawl at infamous "Malice at the Palace" game|work=History|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

Several of the involved players were suspended by NBA Commissioner [[David Stern]]. Artest was suspended for the rest of the regular season and playoffs, a total of 73 games—the longest suspension for an on-court incident in NBA history. Other suspensions included Jackson (suspended for 30&nbsp;games), O'Neal (25&nbsp;games), Wallace (6 &nbsp;games), and the Pacers' [[Anthony Johnson (basketball)|Anthony Johnson]] (5&nbsp;games) (O'Neal's suspension was later reduced to 15 games by arbitrator Roger Kaplan, a decision that was upheld by U.&nbsp;S. District Judge George B. Daniels). O'Neal was charged with two counts of assault and battery, while Artest, Jackson, Johnson, and [[David Harrison (basketball)|David Harrison]] were charged with one count each.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2021/08/09/malice-palace-what-know-pacers-pistons-brawl-untold-netflix/5401800001/|title=Pacers-Pistons brawl: What you need to know about the Malice at the Palace in 2004|work=IndyStar|date=9 August 9, 2021|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|first1=Nat|last1=Newell|first2=Candance|last2=Buckner|first3=J.|last3=Michael|first4=Clifton|last4=Brown|first5=Dana Hunsinger|last5=Benbow}}</ref>

Despite the adversity they had gone through, the Pacers made the [[2005 NBA playoffs|playoffs]] for the 13th time in 14&nbsp;years. In the first round, Indiana defeated the Atlantic Division champion [[2004–05 Boston Celtics season|Boston Celtics]], winning Game&nbsp;7 in Boston with a score of 97–70, just the third time the Celtics had dropped a Game&nbsp;7 at home.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/250507002|title=Slower pace works to Indy's advantage|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|location=Boston|date=8 May 8, 2005|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The Pacers then advanced to the second round against the [[2004–05 Detroit Pistons season|Detroit Pistons]], in a rematch of the previous year's Eastern Conference Finals. The series featured games back at [[The Palace of Auburn Hills]], the scene of the brawl that many assumed at the time had effectively ended the Pacers' season. After losing Game&nbsp;1, the Pacers won the next two games to take a 2–1 lead. However, the Pacers could not repeat their victories against the Pistons and lost the next three games, losing the series 4–2. The final game (Game&nbsp;6) was on May&nbsp;19, 2005; [[Reggie Miller]], in his final NBA game, scored 27&nbsp;points and received a standing ovation from the crowd. Despite Miller's effort, the Pacers lost, sending Miller into retirement without an [[NBA Finals|NBA Championship]] in his 18-year career, all with the Pacers.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2005/05/20/pistons-eliminate-pacers/|title=Pistons eliminate Pacers|location=Indianapolis|work=East Bay Times|agency=The Associated Press|date=20 May 20, 2005|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> Miller had his No.&nbsp;31 jersey retired by the Pacers on March&nbsp;30, 2006, when the Pacers played the [[Phoenix Suns]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Pacers raise Reggie Miller's No.&nbsp;31 to rafters|date = March 31, 2006|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2391064|access-date=March 31, 2006}}</ref>

The team went on to draft [[Danny Granger]] 17th overall in the [[2005 NBA draft]]. During the [[2005–06 Indiana Pacers season|2005–06 season]], the Pacers traded [[Metta Sandiford-Artest|Ron Artest]] to the [[Sacramento Kings]] in exchange for [[Peja Stojaković]]. Despite the loss of Reggie Miller, the Artest saga, and many key injuries, the Pacers [[2006 NBA playoffs|made the playoffs]] in 2006 for the 14th time in 15 years. They also were the only road team to win Game&nbsp;1 of a first-round playoff series. However, New Jersey won Game&nbsp;2 to tie the series at 1–1, heading back to Indiana. In Game&nbsp;3, [[Jermaine O'Neal]] scored 37&nbsp;points, as the Pacers regained a 2–1 series lead. The Nets, however, won games four and five to take a 3–2 series lead. In Game&nbsp;6, [[Anthony Johnson (basketball)|Anthony Johnson]] scored 40&nbsp;points, but the Pacers' season came to an end as the Nets won 96–90.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/nba/recap/_/gameId/260504011|title=Nets withstand Johnson's 40, eliminate Pacers|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=5 May 5, 2006|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

The Pacers finished the [[2006–07 NBA season|2006–07 season]] as one of the worst seasons in team history. The turning point of the season would be an 11-game losing streak that started around the all-star break. Injuries to Jermaine O'Neal and Marquis Daniels, a lack of a solid backup point guard, the blockbuster trade midway through the season that interrupted the team chemistry, poor defensive efforts, and being the NBA's worst offensive team were the main reasons leading to the team's struggles. The April&nbsp;15 loss to [[New Jersey Nets]] knocked the Pacers out of the [[2007 NBA playoffs|playoffs]] for the first time since the 1996–97 season.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/270415011|title=Pacers winding down to last straw in pursuit of playoffs|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=15 April 15, 2007|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|location=Indianapolis}}</ref>

On April 10, 2007, the Pacers announced that coach [[Rick Carlisle]] had been fired, with the Pacers' first losing record in ten seasons being the main reason for the coach's dismissal.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2848972|title=Carlisle won't return as Pacers head coach|date=26 April 26, 2007|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|agency=The Associated Press|location=Indianapolis}}</ref> Pacers President Larry Bird noted that Carlisle had the opportunity to return to the Pacers franchise in another role. Later, Carlisle opted to leave and took a broadcasting job with [[ESPN]] before returning to coach the [[Dallas Mavericks]] in 2008 (where he would win a championship in 2011).<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3384674|title=Carlisle says talks are 'moving along,' could be hired by Mavs Friday|last=Stein|first=Marc|work=ESPN|date=7 May 7, 2008|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> On May&nbsp;31, 2007, [[Jim O'Brien (basketball, born 1952)|Jim O'Brien]] was named Carlisle's successor.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/obrien_release_070531.html|title=PACERS NAME O'BRIEN HEAD COACH|publisher=NBA|date=31 May 31, 2007|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> O'Brien made it clear that he intended to take the Pacers back to the playoffs in the 2007–08 season, but he did not in his tenure. He also made it known that he favored a more up-tempo, fast-paced style as opposed to Carlisle's slower, more meticulous style of coaching. Many people have taken note that this style, while exciting at times, failed to produce a winning record, and O'Brien's inability to change his style to better suit his talent available has hurt the team.

Despite missing the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time since the 1980s, the [[2007–08 NBA season|2007–08 season]] displayed many signs of growth in the team, especially towards the end of the season. Off-court legal distraction from [[Jamaal Tinsley]], [[Marquis Daniels]], and [[Shawne Williams]] in the middle of the season did not help the Pacers struggles, and injuries to Tinsley and Jermaine O'Neal damaged the Pacers' already weak defense and left almost all point guard duties to recently acquired Travis Diener, who saw minimal minutes on his previous NBA teams. Despite this, and a 36–46 record, the Pacers had a very strong finish to the season, which included a desperate attempt to steal the 8th&nbsp;seed from the [[2007–08 Atlanta Hawks season|Atlanta Hawks]], and dramatic improvement in forwards [[Danny Granger]] and [[Mike Dunleavy Jr.|Mike Dunleavy]]. Both Granger and Dunleavy were involved in the voting for [[NBA Most Improved Player Award|Most Improved Player]], with Dunleavy finishing in the top&nbsp;10.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_2008.html|title=2007-08 NBA Awards Voting|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> The two were also the first Pacers players to score 1500 points each in a single season since Reggie Miller and Detlef Schrempf did it in the early 1990s.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://vault.si.com/vault/2008/10/27/9-indiana-pacers|title=9 INDIANA PACERS|last=Torre|first=Pablo S.|website=Vault.si.com|publisher=Sports Illustrated|date=27 October 27, 2008|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref>

In April of the 2007–08 season, [[Donnie Walsh]], Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO & President, left the Indiana Pacers to join the [[New York Knicks]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://nypost.com/2008/04/02/walsh-hired-to-run-knicks/|title=WALSH HIRED TO RUN KNICKS|work=New York Post|last=Berman|first=Marc|date=2 April 2, 2008|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> All of Walsh's basketball-related duties were given to Pacers' President of Basketball Operations [[Larry Bird]]. Walsh's business-related roles were given to co-owner [[Herb Simon (businessman)|Herb Simon]] and Jim Morris, who was promoted to President of Pacers Sports & Entertainment.

During the [[2009–10 NBA season|2009–10 season]], Pacers forward [[Tyler Hansbrough]] ([[2009 NBA draft|drafted in 2009]]) suffered a season-ending ear injury, and without center [[Jeff Foster (basketball)|Jeff Foster]], the Pacers again fell into another season under .500 and missed the playoffs for four years in a row. Despite another disappointing season, the Pacers managed to sweep the waning [[Detroit Pistons]] for the first time in five years,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com.au/nba/recap/_/gameId/300323008|title=Pacers sweep season series vs. Pistons|location=Auburn Hills|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=24 March 24, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> and the abysmal [[New Jersey Nets]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/rewind-pacers-nets-100410|title=Murphy scores 25, Granger 22 as Pacers heat up to beat Nets, 115-102 100410|publisher=NBA|date=10 April 10, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The team showed signs of life near the end of the season, winning nearly all of their last 14&nbsp;games.

In May 2010, after completing his rookie season, guard [[A.&nbsp;J. Price]] suffered a knee injury during a charity pick-up game that would require surgery. His expected rehabilitation was to last between four and six months, to be back just in time for training camp.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=5216360|title=Price expected to miss 4-6 months|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=25 May 25, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|location=Indianapolis}}</ref>

In the [[2010 NBA draft]], the Pacers selected forward/guard [[Paul George]] with the 10th overall pick.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/nbadraft/results/rounds/_/year/2010/round/1|title=2010 NBA Draft Results Round 1|work=ESPN|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> In the second round, they drafted guard [[Lance Stephenson]], as well as forward [[Ryan Reid (basketball)|Ryan Reid]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/nba/draft2010/index|title=NBA Draft 2010|work=ESPN|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The draft rights to Reid were traded on draft night to the [[Oklahoma City Thunder]] in exchange for the rights to forward/center [[Magnum Rolle]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/sports/nba/thunder/2010/07/30/oklahoma-city-thunders-ryan-reid-is-the-nbas-non-lebron/61223639007/|title=Oklahoma City Thunder's Ryan Reid is 'The NBA's non-LeBron'|last=Rohde|first=John|work=The Oklahoman|date=30 July 30, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://latechsports.com/news/2010/9/30/Rolle_Signs_Two_Year_Deal_with_Pacers|title=Rolle Signs Two-Year Deal with Pacers|work=Louisiana Tech University|date=30 September 30, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|location=Ruston}}</ref> The Pacers signed George to his rookie contract on July&nbsp;1, 2010. Stephenson signed a multi-year contract with the team on July&nbsp;22. Just before training camp, Rolle was signed, along with big man [[Lance Allred]]. Both were cut before the regular season began.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wthr.com/article/sports/pacers-waive-rookie-forward-magnum-rolle/531-4e5e2491-10b0-4864-ac51-d09d2fe1874f|title=Pacers waive rookie forward Magnum Rolle|work=WTHR|date=October 25 October, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|location=Indianapolis}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/basketball/nba/player/29371/lance-allred|title=Lance Allred|last=Wells|first=Mike|date=22 October 22, 2010|work=NBC Sports|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

On August 11, 2010, the Pacers acquired guard [[Darren Collison]] and swingman [[James Posey]] from the [[New Orleans Hornets]] in a four-team, five-player deal. [[Troy Murphy]] was dealt to the [[New Jersey Nets]] in that trade.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/434758-nba-trade-what-acquiring-darren-collison-means-for-the-pacers |title=NBA Trade: What Acquiring Darren Collison Means for The Pacers|last=Massey|first=Evan|date=13 August 13, 2010|work=Bleacher Report}}</ref>

In the [[2010–11 NBA season|2010–11 season]], the team went 2–3 in the first five games. On November&nbsp;9, in a home game against Denver, the team scored 54&nbsp;points in the third quarter alone, shooting 20–21 in the process, on the way to a 144–113 rout of the Nuggets. Led by Mike Dunleavy's 24&nbsp;points in the period, the team set a franchise record for most points in a quarter and was only four points short of the all-time NBA record for points in a quarter (58) set in the 1970s.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/truehoop/post/_/id/21370/pacers-record-3rd-quarter-sparks-win|title=Pacers record 3rd quarter sparks win|work=ESPN|date=10 November 10, 2010|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

On January 30, 2011, the Pacers relieved [[Jim O'Brien (basketball, born 1952)|Jim O'Brien]] of his coaching duties and named assistant coach [[Frank Vogel]] interim head coach.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=6074127|title=Pacers dismiss coach Jim O'Brien|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=31 January 31, 2011|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

With a victory over the [[Washington Wizards]] on April&nbsp;6, 2011, the Pacers [[2011 NBA playoffs|clinched their first playoff berth]] since 2006.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/wizards-get-demolished-by-pacers/2011/04/06/AFcJuHsC_story.html|title=Wizards get demolished by Pacers|last=Lee|first=Michael|newspaper=The Washington Post|location=Indianapolis|date=6 April 6, 2011|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> In the first round, they were defeated by the No.&nbsp;1 seed Chicago Bulls in five games. Despite a lopsided comparison in terms of the two teams' win–loss records, three of the four Pacers' losses were close, losing games 1–3 by an average of five points.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2011-nba-eastern-conference-first-round-pacers-vs-bulls.html|title=2011 NBA Eastern Conference First Round Pacers vs. Bulls|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref>

The Pacers named Vogel their permanent head coach on July&nbsp;7, 2011.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.slamonline.com/archives/frank-vogel-officially-named-indianas-head-coach/|title=Frank Vogel Officially Named Indiana's Head Coach|last=Riches|first=Tim|date=6 July 6, 2011|work=Slam|access-date=30 November 30, 2022 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308131922/https://www.slamonline.com/archives/frank-vogel-officially-named-indianas-head-coach/ |archive-date= MarMarch 8, 2023 }}</ref> They acquired [[George Hill (basketball)|George Hill]] from the [[San Antonio Spurs]] on [[2011 NBA draft|draft night]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/pacers_acquire_george_hill_fro_2011_06_24.html|title=Pacers Acquire George Hill From Spurs |date=24 June 24, 2011|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|publisher=NBA|location=Indianapolis}}</ref> After the lockout, and losing [[Mike Dunleavy Jr.]] to [[NBA free agency|free–agency]], the Pacers signed former two-time All-Star power forward [[David West (basketball)|David West]] to a two-year deal.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/7341777/free-agent-david-west-signs-indiana-pacers|title=David West, Pacers have 2-year deal|work=ESPN|date=12 December 12, 2011|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> These new players contributed to the Pacers' record of 21–12 at the All-Star break. The Pacers acquired another key piece in [[Leandro Barbosa]] from the [[Toronto Raptors]] at the trade deadline, mid-season.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/7690948/toronto-raptors-deal-leandro-barbosa-indiana-pacers|title=Pacers get Leandro Barbosa|date=16 March 16, 2012|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|location=Indianapolis}}</ref>

At the end of the [[2011–12 NBA season|2011–12 season]], the team, led in scoring by [[Danny Granger]], clinched the playoffs as the third seed in the Eastern Conference. They finished with a 42–24 record, their best record since their 2003–04 season. On May&nbsp;8, 2012, the Pacers defeated the [[Orlando Magic]] 105–87 to win their first playoff series since 2005 and would go on to play the [[Miami Heat]] in the [[2012 NBA playoffs|Eastern Conference Semifinals]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2012-nba-eastern-conference-first-round-magic-vs-pacers.html|title=2012 NBA Eastern Conference First Round Magic vs. Pacers|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> On May&nbsp;15, 2012, they defeated Miami to tie the second-round series at 1–1. On May&nbsp;17, they again beat Miami 94–75 to take the series lead 2–1. However, despite a hard-fought series between the two, the Heat won Game&nbsp;6 to close the series at 4–2.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/320524011|title=Dwyane Wade, Heat close out Pacers in six games|work=ESPN|agency=The Associated Press|date=25 May 25, 2012|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

On June 26, 2012, general manager [[David Morway]] officially resigned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Wells|first=Mike|title=David Morway resigns as general manager of Pacers|url=http://www.indystar.com/article/20120626/SPORTS04/120626031/David-Morway-resigns-general-manager-Pacers?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CSports%7Cs|work=Indianapolis Star|access-date=June 26, 2012}}</ref> The following day, president of basketball operations, [[Larry Bird]] stepped down. Bird and Morway were officially replaced by [[Donnie Walsh]] and [[Kevin Pritchard]], respectively.<ref>{{cite web|title=Larry Bird officially steps down|date=June 27, 2012|url=http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8101542/indiana-pacers-part-ways-larry-bird-introduce-donnie-walsh-new-president|access-date=June 27, 2012}}</ref> Walsh returned to the organization after spending the previous three seasons in the Knicks' front office. Pritchard was promoted by the Pacers after serving as the team's director of player personnel. In the [[2012 NBA draft]], the Pacers selected [[Miles Plumlee]] with the 26th pick and acquired [[Orlando Johnson (basketball)|Orlando Johnson]], the 36th pick from the [[Sacramento Kings]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/draft/NBA_2012.html|title=2012 NBA Draft|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The team also acquired key bench players [[Ian Mahinmi]], [[Gerald Green]], and [[D.&nbsp;J. Augustin]].

On April 7, 2013, the Pacers clinched their first Central Division championship since the 2003–04 season. They finished the [[2012–13 NBA season|2012–13 season]] with a 49–32 record, the third seed in the Eastern Conference, and beat the [[Atlanta Hawks]] in the first round of the playoffs. The Pacers then beat the [[New York Knicks]] in six games to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2004 to face the defending champs, the [[Miami Heat]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=2013 NBA Eastern Conference Finals|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_2013_ECF.html|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The Pacers lost Game&nbsp;1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on May&nbsp;22, 2013, in overtime 103–102.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20130522/INDMIA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore|title=Pacers at Heat|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330123450/http://www.nba.com/games/20130522/INDMIA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore|archive-date=March 30, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> On May&nbsp;24, 2013, in Game&nbsp;2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers were victorious by a score of 97–93. The game was clinched for Indiana after David West deflected a pass from [[LeBron James]]. The team headed home to Indianapolis, where they had been a perfect 6–0 in the playoffs. The Heat won Game&nbsp;3 in Indianapolis on May&nbsp;26, 2013, with contributions from role players [[Udonis Haslem]] and [[Chris Andersen]], and won 114–96.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20130526/MIAIND/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore|title=Heat at Pacers|work=NBA.com|access-date=June 30, 2015}}</ref> The Pacers bounced back in Game&nbsp;4 with a strong contribution from Lance Stephenson and won 99–92. The Pacers lost Game&nbsp;5 in Miami on May&nbsp;30 but won Game&nbsp;6 at home on June&nbsp;1, extending the series to Game&nbsp;7. The Pacers were defeated by Miami 99–76.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2013-nba-eastern-conference-finals-pacers-vs-heat.html|title=2013 NBA Eastern Conference Finals|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|publisher=Basketball Reference}}</ref>

One year after stepping down, [[Larry Bird]] returned as president of basketball operations. [[Donnie Walsh]], who was brought back to hold the position for Bird, was named a consultant for the Pacers.<ref>{{cite news|last=Tzucker|first=Jeff|title=Bird Back, Focused on Winning|url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/bird-back-focused-winning|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|date=June 27, 2013|access-date=October 21, 2018}}</ref> In the [[2013 NBA draft]], the Pacers selected [[Solomon Hill (basketball)|Solomon Hill]] with the 23rd overall pick.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1681873-solomon-hill-picked-by-indiana-pacers-scouting-report-and-analysis|title=Solomon Hill Picked by Indiana Pacers: Scouting Report and Analysis|work=Bleacher Report|last=Wasserman|first=Jonathan|date=28 June 28, 2013|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> During the 2013 off-season, the Pacers made strengthening their bench a priority, resulting in the acquisitions of point guard [[C.&nbsp;J. Watson]], and forwards [[Chris Copeland]] and [[Luis Scola]], the latter being acquired via trade with the [[Phoenix Suns]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/IND/2014_transactions.html|title=2013-14 Indiana Pacers Transactions|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

The [[2013–14 NBA season|2013–14 season]] saw the Pacers jump to an explosive first half of a season, as they started the season 33–7 thanks to the rise of Paul George and Lance Stephenson. On January&nbsp;14, 2014, Vogel was named the Eastern Conference head coach for [[2014 NBA All-Star Game]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Indiana's Frank Vogel Earns Spot as Eastern Conference Head Coach for 2014 NBA All-Star Game|url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/indianas-frank-vogel-earns-spot-eastern-conference-head-coach-2014-nba-all-star-game|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|date=January 14, 2014|access-date=January 15, 2014|archive-date=January 15, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140115140411/http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/indianas-frank-vogel-earns-spot-eastern-conference-head-coach-2014-nba-all-star-game|url-status=dead}}</ref> Paul George and Roy Hibbert were selected for the All-Star Game.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1962126-nba-all-star-game-2014-rosters-starting-lineups-reserves-and-stat-predictions|title=NBA All-Star Game 2014 Rosters: Starting Lineups, Reserves and Stat Predictions|work=Bleacher Report|date=16 February 16, 2014|last=DeJohn|first=Kenny|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The Pacers signed two-time NBA champion and [[2012 NBA All-Star Game|2012 All-Star]] [[Andrew Bynum]] for the remainder of the season. However, after the All-Star Break, the Pacers collapsed. After starting the season 40–11, the Pacers crashed and stumbled to a 16–15 finish, with rumors of fighting in the locker room being a potential cause for the meltdown. Regardless, they managed to hold onto their first seed in the East, finished the season with a 56–26 record.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_2014_standings.html|title=2013-14 NBA Standings|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

The Pacers started off the playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks, defeating them in seven games.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2014-nba-eastern-conference-first-round-hawks-vs-pacers.html|title=2014 NBA Eastern Conference First Round Hawks vs. Pacers|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|publisher=Basketball Reference}}</ref> The Pacers then defeated Washington in 6 games in the semifinals,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2014-nba-eastern-conference-semifinals-wizards-vs-pacers.html|title=2014 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals Wizards vs. Pacers|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|publisher=Basketball Reference}}</ref> then a rematch with the second-seeded and defending champion Miami in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Pacers surprised many critics, taking Game&nbsp;1 in the Eastern Conference Finals with a score of 107–95. Unfortunately for the Pacers, they ended up losing the next three to the Heat before managing to avoid elimination in Game&nbsp;5 with a close win over the Heat. The game was notable for the infamous incident where Lance Stephenson blew into LeBron James' ear.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/pacers-stephenson-blows-lebron-ear-game-5-article-1.1809425|title=VIDEO: Pacers' Lance Stephenson blows in LeBron James' ear during Game 5 vs. Heat|work=New York Daily News|last=O'Leary|first=Daniel|date=30 May 30, 2014|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> Despite the win, the Pacers were eliminated in Game&nbsp;6 by the Miami Heat for the third straight year.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/2014-nba-eastern-conference-finals-heat-vs-pacers.html|title=2014 NBA Eastern Conference Finals Heat vs. Pacers|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

On August 1, 2014, Paul George, who was playing in a Team USA scrimmage in preparation for the FIBA World Cup, suffered a catastrophic open fracture to his right leg (tibia and fibula) while trying to defend [[James Harden]] on a fast break. As he tried to defend Harden from advancing to the rim, George's leg caught on the stanchion of the hoop and fractured.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/olympics/basketball/story/_/id/11298573/paul-george-suffers-apparent-serious-leg-injury-team-usa-showcase-game|title=Paul George suffers serious injury|work=ESPN|location=Las Vegas|date=2 August 2, 2014|access-date=1 December 1, 2022|last=Windhorst|first=Brian}}</ref> He was stretchered off of the court. A day later, George successfully underwent surgery. He was expected to miss the entire [[2014–15 NBA season|2014–15 season]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/paul-george-injury-update-broken-leg-out-for-the-season-indiana-pacers-team-usa/dm0ooocoi7wj1lyvqg3dtaso5|title=Reports: Paul George to miss entire 2014-15 season|work=Sporting News|date=3 August 3, 2014|last=Machir|first=Troy|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> On April&nbsp;5, 2015, Paul George returned from his injury to play in a game against the [[Miami Heat]]. George shot 5 of 12 from the field and tallied two steals, two rebounds, and two assists in a winning effort. He played for fifteen minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/game/mia-vs-ind-0021401149/box-score|title=Miami Heat vs Indiana Pacers Apr 5, 2015 Box Scores|publisher=NBA|date=5 April 5, 2015|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> After failing to reach the [[2015 NBA playoffs|2015 NBA Playoffs]], the team departed with core players [[Roy Hibbert]], [[David West (basketball)|David West]], and [[Luis Scola]]. In the [[2015 NBA draft]], the Pacers selected [[Myles Turner]] 11th overall.

During the offseason, the Pacers signed star [[Monta Ellis]] as well as role player [[Jordan Hill (basketball)|Jordan Hill]], while acquiring [[Ty Lawson]] during the season. Paul George fully recovered from his injury and made the [[2016 NBA All-Star Game]] as a starter. The Pacers would go on to lose Game&nbsp;7 in the first round against the [[Toronto Raptors]] ending their [[2015-16 Indiana Pacers season|2015-2016 season]]. Despite the Pacers going {{win-loss record|w=45|l=37}} and making the playoffs,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/IND/2016.html|title=2015-16 Indiana Pacers Roster and Stats - Basketball-Reference.com|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref> on May&nbsp;5, 2016, Pacers' president [[Larry Bird]] announced that head coach [[Frank Vogel]]'s contract would not be renewed, citing a need for "a new voice" to lead the players.<ref>{{cite news|title=Pacers Announce Frank Vogel Will Not Return as Coach|url=http://www.nba.com/pacers/news/larry-bird-hold-press-conference-thursday-morning-160504|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Pacers.com|date=May 5, 2016|access-date=May 6, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/pacers-part-coach-vogel-230700761.html|title=Pacers part with coach Vogel|work=Yahoo.com|date=May 5, 2016|access-date=May 5, 2016|archive-date=May 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514142015/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/pacers-part-coach-vogel-230700761.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Later that month former [[Seattle SuperSonics]] and [[Portland Trail Blazers]] head coach [[Nate McMillan]] was promoted to replace Vogel.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pacers name assistant McMillan as new coach|url=http://www.nba.com/2016/news/05/16/indiana-pacers-name-nate-mcmillan-as-new-coach/index.html|website=NBA.com|access-date=May 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160521000225/http://www.nba.com/2016/news/05/16/indiana-pacers-name-nate-mcmillan-as-new-coach/index.html|archive-date=May 21, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The team made several off-season moves, acquiring new starters [[Jeff Teague]] and [[Thaddeus Young]], as well as key bench players [[Al Jefferson]] and [[Aaron Brooks (basketball)|Aaron Brooks]]. During the season, the Pacers waived [[Rodney Stuckey]] in order to sign former fan-favorite [[Lance Stephenson]]. The Pacers qualified to play in the 2017 [[2017 NBA playoffs|NBA Playoffs]] with a {{win-loss record|w=42|l=40}} record, which earned them the number&nbsp;7 playoff seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they were given a quick exit by the [[2016 NBA Finals|defending champions]], the [[2016–17 Cleveland Cavaliers season|Cleveland Cavaliers]], who swept them in four games.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/playoffs/2017/04/23/lebron-james-cavs-sweep-pacers-advance-second-round-nba-playoffs/100819262/|title=LeBron James, Cavs sweep Pacers, advance to second round of NBA playoffs|work=USA Today|last=Zillgitt|first=Jeff|date=23 April 23, 2017|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

On June 30, 2017, [[Paul George]] was traded to the [[Oklahoma City Thunder]] for [[Victor Oladipo]] and [[Domantas Sabonis]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/news/paul-george-traded-oklahoma-city-thunder-official-release|title=Oklahoma City Thunder trade for All-Star swingman Paul George|publisher=NBA|date=7 July 7, 2017|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> The Pacers received heavy criticism for this trade, but it would eventually prove to be the best season of Oladipo's career, with him showing an increase in points, steals, assists, rebounds, [[free throw]] percentage, [[field goal percentage]], and [[Three-point field goal|three-point]] percentage, which resulted to winning the [[NBA Most Improved Player Award]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Zucker |first1=Joseph |title=Victor Oladipo Wins 2018 NBA Most Improved Player of the Year Award |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2776585-victor-oladipo-wins-2018-nba-most-improved-player-of-the-year-award |website=Bleacher Report |access-date=January 4, 2019 |date=June 26, 2018}}</ref> Sabonis also showed an increase in points, rebounds, and assists while leading the Pacers in rebounding during the [[2017–18 NBA season|2017–18 season]]. Oladipo would be selected as a [[2018 NBA All-Star Game|2018 NBA All-Star]] reserve,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-all-star-game-2018-full-rosters-warriors-get-four-in-kemba-in-for-kristaps/|title=NBA All-Star Game 2018 full rosters: Warriors get four in; Kemba in for Kristaps|work=CBS Sports|date=8 February 8, 2018|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|first1=Colin|last1=Ward-Henninger|first2=Jack|last2=Maloney}}</ref> while Sabonis was selected to represent Team World in the [[Rising Stars Challenge]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2018-nba-rising-stars-challenge-rosters-big-presence-for-lakers-and-76ers/|title=2018 NBA Rising Stars Challenge rosters: Big presence for Lakers and 76ers|last=Barnewell|first=Chris|work=CBS Sports|date=24 January 24, 2018|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref> Oladipo ended the season leading the NBA in steals per game. The team welcomed back former Pacer [[Darren Collison]] as well as newcomers [[Bojan Bogdanović]] and [[Cory Joseph]]. The Pacers ended the season with a 48–34 record, which earned them the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. Their record was a six–game improvement from last season with Paul George. The Pacers faced the [[2017–18 Cleveland Cavaliers season|Cleveland Cavaliers]] in the first round of the [[2018 NBA playoffs]] for the second year in a row. After taking a 2–1 series lead, the Pacers fell to the Cavaliers in seven games.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Eppers |first1=Matt |title=Exhausted LeBron James after Cavs' seven–game series win over Pacers: 'I'm burnt right now' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/playoffs/2018/04/29/lebron-james-exhausted-cavaliers-pacers-tough-seven-game-series/563728002/ |website=USA Today |access-date=March 23, 2019 |date=April 30, 2018}}</ref>

The [[2018-19 Indiana Pacers season|2018–2019 season]] welcomed new players [[Tyreke Evans]], [[Wesley Matthews]], and [[Doug McDermott]]. Oladipo would be selected as an All-Star reserve again for the [[2019 NBA All-Star Game|2019 game]]. However, while playing against the Toronto Raptors on January&nbsp;23, 2019, he left the game with a [[Quadriceps tendon rupture|ruptured quad tendon]], and he was ruled out for the rest of the season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pacers star Victor Oladipo leaves Wednesday's game with serious knee injury |url=https://www.wthr.com/article/pacers-star-victor-oladipo-leaves-wednesdays-game-serious-knee-injury |website=13 WTHR Indianapolis |access-date=March 23, 2019 |date=January 23, 2019 |archive-date=March 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323230240/https://www.wthr.com/article/pacers-star-victor-oladipo-leaves-wednesdays-game-serious-knee-injury |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Wojnarowski|first=Adrian|url=http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/25835499/victor-oladipo-indiana-pacers-stretchered-serious-knee-injury|title=Victor Oladipo stretchered off in serious knee injury|work=ESPN.com|date=January 23, 2019|access-date=January 23, 2019}}</ref> Regardless, the Pacers again finished the season going 48–34 and secured a playoff spot for the fourth consecutive time on March&nbsp;22,<ref>{{cite web |title=NBA India Games: Indiana Pacers clinch 2019 playoff berth |url=https://in.nba.com/news/nba-india-games-indiana-pacers-clinch-2019-playoffspot/129g7jubbjw1n1179f4wkiwwik |website=in.nba.com |access-date=March 23, 2019 |date=March 22, 2019}}</ref> but were swept in the first round of the [[2019 NBA playoffs|2019 playoffs]] by the [[Boston Celtics]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2019-nba-playoffs-celtics-vs-pacers-first-round-series-results-boston-completes-sweep-of-indiana/|title=2019 NBA Playoffs Celtics vs. Pacers first-round series results: Boston completes sweep of Indiana|work=CBS Sports|last=Kaskey-Blomain|first=Michael|date=22 April 22, 2019|access-date=30 November 30, 2022}}</ref>

After an active 2019 off–season, the Pacers fielded four new starters on opening night. Holdover Myles Turner was joined by reserve–turned–starter Domantas Sabonis, as well as new acquisitions [[Malcolm Brogdon]], [[T.&nbsp;J. Warren]], and [[Jeremy Lamb]], who was slated to become a top reserve once all–star guard Victor Oladipo returned from injury.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/IND/2020_transactions.html|title=2019-20 Indiana Pacers Transactions|publisher=Basketball Reference|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> The Pacers also signed reserves [[T.&nbsp;J. McConnell]] and [[Justin Holiday]], with [[Justin Holiday|Holiday]] joining his younger brother [[Aaron Holiday]] on the team. The Pacers also saw three players with the name "T.&nbsp;J." take the court in [[T. J. McConnell|McConnell]], [[T. J. Warren|Warren]], and [[T. J. Leaf|Leaf]]. in Following an 0–3 start to the season, the Pacers held a 26–15 record halfway through the season, ranking them fifth place in the Eastern Conference. [[Domantas Sabonis]] averaged a career–best 18.5&nbsp;points, 12.4&nbsp;rebounds, and 5&nbsp;assists a game. Subsequently, Sabonis was named an [[2020 NBA All-Star Game|NBA All-Star]] for the first time in his career.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonyeast/2020/02/05/indiana-pacers-nba-all-star-domantas-sabonis/?sh=559a207c1199|title=The Indiana Pacers Are Well Represented At All-Star Weekend By Domantas Sabonis|date=February 5 February, 2020|work=Forbes|last=East|first=Tony|access-date=1 December 1, 2022}}</ref> Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a foot injury and would miss the postseason.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/nba/2020/07/24/domantas-sabonis-foot-injury-nba-restart-orlando-bubble|title=Pacers C Domantas Sabonis Has 'Significant' Foot Injury, to Leave Bubble for Treatment|magazine=Sports Illustrated|date=24 July 24, 2020|access-date=1 December 1, 2022|last=Selbe|first=Nick}}</ref>

Following the [[suspension of the 2019–20 NBA season]], the Pacers were one of the 22 teams invited to the [[2020 NBA Bubble|NBA Bubble]] to participate in the final eight games of the regular season. The Pacers would finish the [[2019–20 NBA season|2019–2020 regular season]] with a record of 45–28 and headed into the playoffs as the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference. On August 12, 2020, the team announced that they had extended Nate McMillan's contract.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29645044/sources-pacers-coach-nate-mcmillan-agrees-contract-extension|title=Pacers coach Nate McMillan agrees to 1-year contract extension|date=12 August 12, 2020|access-date=7 December 7, 2022|last=Wojnarowski|first=Adrian|work=ESPN}}</ref> They then matched up with the fifth seeded Miami Heat where they would go on to lose the first-round series 4–0 which subsequently ended their [[2019–20 Indiana Pacers season|2019–2020 season]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/article/2020/06/04/board-of-governors-approves-nba-return-official-release|title = NBA Board of Governors approves competitive format to restart 2019-20 season with 22 teams returning to play| website=[[NBA.com]] }}</ref>

Following the loss to the Heat, the Pacers parted ways with head coach Nate McMillan, despite the recent extension.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Pacers fire coach Nate McMillan after 4 seasons on job|url=https://www.nba.com/news/pacers-fire-coach-nate-mcmillan|access-date=2020-10-October 20, 2020|website=NBA.com|publisher=NBA|date=26 August 26, 2020}}</ref> On October&nbsp;20, 2020, it was announced that former Toronto Raptors assistant coach, [[Nate Bjorkgren]], had signed a multi-year deal to become the next head coach.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-10-October 20, 2020|title=Sources: Pacers to hire Bjorkgren as head coach|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30154580/sources-indiana-pacers-hire-nate-bjorkgren-head-coach|access-date=2020-10-October 20, 2020|website=ESPN.com|language=en}}</ref> On January&nbsp;16, 2021, [[Victor Oladipo]] was traded to the [[Houston Rockets]] as a part of a four-team deal that sent [[James Harden]] to the [[Brooklyn Nets]] and [[Caris LeVert]] to Indiana.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rockets Announce Revised Four-Team Trade|url=https://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rockets-announce-revised-four-team-trade|website=NBA.com|access-date=January 16, 2021|date=January 16, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Pacers Acquire Caris LeVert|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/pacers-acquire-caris-levert|website=NBA.com|access-date=January 16, 2021}}</ref> Sabonis would go on to earn his second [[2021 NBA All-Star Game|NBA All-Star]] appearance during the [[2020–21 Indiana Pacers season|2020-2021 Pacers season]]. The team also signed [[Oshae Brissett]] this year. The season would end in the 2021 [[NBA play-in tournament]] in a loss to the [[Washington Wizards]]. After missing the [[2021 NBA Playoffs]], and amid reported locker room tension, the Pacers fired Bjorkgren on June&nbsp;9, 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nba/news/why-the-pacers-fired-coach-nate-bjorkgren/1pva9s4w9qjff1ubjhf163yv8n|title=Why the Pacers fired coach Nate Bjorkgren after just one season|work=Sporting News|date=10 June 10, 2021|access-date=1 December 1, 2022|last=Camenker|first=Jacob}}</ref>

On June 24, 2021, the Pacers announced that they had reached an agreement with former [[Dallas Mavericks]] coach [[Rick Carlisle]] to become the next head coach following Bjorkgren's departure. Carlisle previously was an assistant coach for the Pacers from 1997 to 2000, and was also the head coach of the Pacers previously from 2003 to 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Pacers Reach Agreement with Rick Carlisle to Become Head Coach|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/pacers-reach-agreement-rick-carlisle-become-head-coach|access-date=2021-06-June 28, 2021|website=Indiana Pacers|language=en}}</ref> The team also hired former [[Charlotte Hornets]] assistant and Indiana-native [[Ronald Nored]] as well as former [[Atlanta Hawks]] head coach [[Lloyd Pierce]] to serve as lead assistant to Carlisle.<ref name="Pacers Hire Four Assistant Coaches">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/pacers-hire-four-assistant-coaches|title=Pacers Hire Four Assistant Coaches|work=NBA.com|date=16 July 16, 2021|access-date=16 July 16, 2021}}</ref> The arrival of Carlisle also brought over [[Jenny Boucek]] and [[Mike Weinar]], both formerly serving with the [[Dallas Mavericks]].<ref name="Pacers Hire Four Assistant Coaches"/> Boucek served as the [[List of female NBA coaches|first female assistant coach]] for the Pacers franchise. In the [[2021 NBA draft]], the Pacers selected [[Chris Duarte (basketball)|Chris Duarte]] with the 13th pick and traded up for the 22nd pick, [[Isaiah Jackson (basketball)|Isaiah Jackson]]. Duarte was selected to the 2022 [[NBA All-Rookie Team|NBA All-Rookie]] Second Team.

The Pacers failed to qualify for the [[2022 NBA Playoffs]] with a record of 25–57 in the [[2021–22 NBA season]], which marks the first time the team failed to reach the playoffs for consecutive seasons since 2007–10.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/standings?Season=2021-22|title=NBA 2021-22 Regular Season Standings|work=NBA|access-date=7 December 7, 2022}}</ref> The [[2021–22 Indiana Pacers season|2021–22 season]] also saw fan-favorite [[Lance Stephenson]] serve his third stint with the Pacers franchise. During the season, the Pacers traded away core players including [[Domantas Sabonis]], [[Caris LeVert]], [[Justin Holiday]], [[Jeremy Lamb]], and [[Malcolm Brogdon]] between seasons. In return, the Pacers notably received multiple first–round draft picks, sharpshooter [[Buddy Hield]], veterans [[Daniel Theis]] and [[Tristan Thompson]], as well as young stars [[Tyrese Haliburton]], [[Jalen Smith]] and [[Aaron Nesmith]], all [[NBA draft lottery|lottery picks]] in the [[2020 NBA draft]].

The team would go on to draft [[Bennedict Mathurin]] sixth overall in the [[2022 NBA draft]] along with standout second-round pick [[Andrew Nembhard]]. Mathurin was the Pacers' highest pick the franchise has owned since selecting [[Rik Smits]] second overall in the [[1988 NBA draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 3, 2022-07-03 |title=Indiana Pacers Facing Their Most Important NBA draft in Decades |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonyeast/2022/06/22/indiana-pacers-facing-their-most-important-nba-draft-in-decades/?sh=252a0c871c2c|access-date=July 3, 2022-07-03 |website=Forbes.com}}</ref> On January&nbsp;31, 2023, both Mathurin and Nembhard were named [[NBA Rising Stars Challenge|2023 NBA Rising Stars]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Pacers' Bennedict Mathurin, Andrew Nembhard named NBA Rising Stars for All-Star Weekend |url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2023/01/31/pacers-bennedict-mathurin-andrew-nembhard-named-nba-rising-stars/69858891007/ |website=IndyStar.com |access-date=January 31, 2023 |date=January 31, 2023}}</ref> [[Tyrese Haliburton]] was also selected to his first ever [[2023 NBA All-Star Game|NBA All-Star Game]] in 2023 as a reserve guard for the [[Eastern Conference (NBA)|Eastern Conference]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 NBA All-Star reserves revealed |url=https://www.nba.com/news/2023-all-star-reserves-announced |access-date=February 3, 2023-02-03 |website=NBA.com |language=en}}</ref> Both [[Tyrese Haliburton]] and [[Buddy Hield]] were selected to participate in the [[NBA Three-Point Contest|2023 NBA Three-Point Contest]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 Starry 3-Point Contest|url=https://www.nba.com/news/2023-3-point-contest |access-date=2023-02-February 17, 2023 |website=NBA.com |language=en}}</ref> At the 2023 [[Trade (sports)|trade deadline]], the team acquired three future second round picks, [[Jordan Nwora]], [[Serge Ibaka]], as well as Indiana–native and former Pacer, [[George Hill (basketball)|George Hill]] in exchange for the draft rights to [[Juan Pablo Vaulet]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Indiana Pacers Acquire Jordan Nwora, George Hill, and Serge Ibaka, and Multiple Second-Round Picks |url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/pacers-acquire-jordan-nwora-george-hill-serge-ibaka-multiple-draft-picks |access-date=February 9, 2023 |website=NBA}}</ref> On March&nbsp;25, against the [[Atlanta Hawks]], [[Jordan Nwora]] posted his Pacers season–high 33&nbsp;points and added six rebounds, scoring 25 of his 33 points in the second quarter, setting the Pacers regular–season franchise record for most points in a quarter since tracking began in the [[1996–97 NBA season]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Explodes for 33 points in loss |url=https://www.foxsports.com/nba/jordan-nwora-player |access-date=March 25, 2023 |website=FOXSports.com}}</ref><ref>[https://www.espn.com/nba/game/_/gameId/401469262 Collins leads deep Hawks attack in 143-130 win over Pacers]</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Jordan Nwora set the regular-season franchise record for most points in a quarter with 25&nbsp;points in the second quarter tonight. |url=https://twitter.com/Pacers/status/1639753146464362496 |access-date=March 25, 2023 |website=Twitter.com}}</ref> At the conclusion of the season, [[Bennedict Mathurin]] passed [[Chris Duarte (basketball)|Chris Duarte]] for most three–pointers made as a rookie in Pacers franchise history.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pacers' Bennedict Mathurin: Nears double-double in defeat |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/basketball/news/pacers-bennedict-mathurin-nears-double-double-in-defeat/ |website=CBSSports.com |access-date=March 28, 2023 |date=March 28, 2023}}</ref> Additionally, [[Buddy Hield]] broke [[Reggie Miller]]'s record of most three-pointers made in a season in Pacers history. Furthermore, [[Bennedict Mathurin]] finished fourth in the 2023 [[NBA Rookie of the Year Award]] voting<ref>{{cite web |title=2023 NBA Rookie of the Year Voting |website=[[Associated Press News]] |date=April 25, 2023 |url=https://apnews.com/article/sports-35b9793aef42d37b116bf3e90a1f8e36}}</ref> and earned [[NBA All-Rookie Team]] honors.<ref>{{cite web |title=2022-23 Kia NBA All-Rookie teams |website=[[NBA.com]] |url=https://www.nba.com/news/2022-23-all-rookie-teams-announced}}</ref>

Following a 35–47 record in the [[2022–23 Indiana Pacers season|2022–23 season]], the [[2023 NBA draft]] saw the Pacers select [[Bilal Coulibaly]] seventh overall. The [[Washington Wizards]] selected [[Jarace Walker]] with the eighth overall pick and immediately traded him to the Pacers along with two future second–round picks for the draft rights to [[Bilal Coulibaly]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Wallace |first1=Ava |title=Wizards, with eye on long–term future, take French project Bilal Coulibaly |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/06/22/bilal-coulibaly-wizards-draft/ |access-date=23 June 23, 2023 |agency=Washington Post |date=23 June 23, 2023}}</ref> Following several draft–day trades, the Pacers walked away with the eighth pick [[Jarace Walker]], the 26th pick [[Ben Sheppard (basketball)|Ben Sheppard]], the 47th pick [[Mojave King]], and the 55th pick [[Isaiah Wong]]. On July&nbsp;1, 2023, [[Jarace Walker]] signed his rookie contract with the Pacers alongside [[Ben Sheppard (basketball)|Ben Sheppard]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Pacers Sign Jarace Walker, Ben Sheppard |url=https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2023/07/pacers-sign-jarace-walker-ben-sheppard.html |access-date=1 July 1, 2023 |agency=HoopsRumors |date=1 July 1, 2023}}</ref>

On July 6, 2023, during [[Free agent|NBA free agency]], Haliburton officially signed a max contract extension with the Pacers worth up to $260&nbsp;million over five years.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Report: Tyrese Haliburton agrees to max contract extension with Pacers |url=https://www.nba.com/news/tyrese-haliburton-2023-free-agency |access-date=July 1, 2023-07-01 |website=NBA.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Report: Tyrese Haliburton max contract extension details with Pacers, explained |url=https://clutchpoints.com/pacers-news-tyrese-haliburton-max-extension-contract-details |access-date=July 6, 2023-07-06 |website=ClutchPoints.com |date=July 5, 2023 |language=en}}</ref> It was also announced that Haliburton would represent the [[United States men's national basketball team|United States Men's National Team]] at the [[2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Report: USA FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 roster: Anthony Edwards, Paolo Banchero headline US men's team |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/team-usa-fiba-basketball-world-cup-2023-roster/iuikgk3hhiplytsuy6bsv8sx |access-date=July 6, 2023-07-06 |website=TheSportingNews.com |date=July 6, 2023 |language=en}}</ref> The same day, the team announced they had signed [[2023 NBA Finals|2023 NBA Champion]] [[Bruce Brown (basketball)|Bruce Brown]] to a two-year, $45&nbsp;million contract.<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.nba.com/news/bruce-brown-2023-free-agency# |title = NBA champ Bruce Brown signs with Pacers |website = [[NBA.com]]}}</ref>

During the 2023 offseason, the Pacers made several acquisitions including trading away [[Chris Duarte (basketball)|Chris Duarte]] to the [[Sacramento Kings]] in exchange for two future second–round picks.<ref>{{cite news |title=Kings acquiring Pacers' Chris Duarte for picks, sources say |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37970802/kings-acquiring-pacers-chris-duarte-picks-sources-say |access-date=6 July 6, 2023 |agency=ESPN |date=6 July 6, 2023}}</ref> [[Oshae Brissett]] left the Pacers to sign a contract with the [[Boston Celtics]] while the team decided against bringing back veteran [[George Hill (basketball)|George Hill]] but later re-signed [[James Johnson (basketball, born 1987)|James Johnson]]. On the contrary, the Pacers acquired [[Obi Toppin]], the eighth overall pick in the [[2020 NBA draft]], from the [[New York Knicks]] in exchange for two future second–round picks.<ref>{{cite news |title=Report: Knicks trading Obi Toppin to Pacers |url=https://www.nba.com/news/knicks-trade-obi-toppin-to-pacers |access-date=6 July 6, 2023 |agency=NBA.com |date=1 July 1, 2023}}</ref> On the Pacers, Toppin joined [[Jalen Smith]], [[Tyrese Haliburton]], [[Aaron Nesmith]], and [[Jordan Nwora]], all selected in the [[2020 NBA draft]]. The same offseason, the team announced they had lost [[Ronald Nored]] to an assistant coaching position with the [[Atlanta Hawks]], while simultaneously rehiring former Pacers assistant and [[Chicago Bulls]] head coach [[Jim Boylen]] to replace Nored, who had been previously serving as a Pacers consultant.<ref>{{cite news |title=Indiana Pacers coaching staff undergoes changes ahead of 2023-24 season |url=https://www.si.com/nba/pacers/news/indiana-pacers-coaching-staff-undergoes-changes-2023-24-season |access-date=5 July 5, 2023 |agency=SportsIllustrated |date=2 July 2, 2023}}</ref> The team also hired former Pacer player [[Shayne Whittington]] as an assistant to Carlisle. In a surprising move, the Pacers brought back [[Larry Bird]] to serve as a consultant, returning to the franchise for the first time since July 2022.<ref>{{cite news |title=Larry Bird returns to help Pacers. Fans have opinions on that, some nice, some not so nice |url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2023/06/01/larry-bird-returns-to-indiana-pacers-as-a-consultant/70275671007/ |access-date=7 July 7, 2023 |agency=IndyStar.com |date=1 June 1, 2023}}</ref>

The Pacers were particularly successful in the [[2023 NBA In-Season Tournament]], beating the [[Boston Celtics]] and [[Milwaukee Bucks]] en route to reaching the In-Season Tournament finals against the [[Los Angeles Lakers]], where they lost 123–109.<ref name="cup">{{Cite news |newspaper=[[Indianapolis Star]] |date=December 9, 2023-12-09 |accessdate=2023-12-December 10, 2023 |language=en-US |first=Dustin |last=Dopirak |url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2023/12/09/pacers-vs-lakers-lebron-james-anthony-davis-overpower-pacers-in-ist/71857629007/ |department=Sports |issn=1930-2533 |title=Anthony Davis posts 41 points, 20 rebounds to beat Pacers in IST final}}</ref>

On January 17, 2024, it was reported that the Pacers acquired All-Star forward [[Pascal Siakam]] in a three-team deal with the [[Toronto Raptors]] and [[New Orleans Pelicans]], where the Pacers gave up [[Bruce Brown (basketball)|Bruce Brown]], [[Jordan Nwora]], and three future first-round picks for Siakam.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/39330081/sources-pacers-acquire-pascal-siakam-trade-raptors-pelicans|title=Pacers acquire Pascal Siakam in trade with Raptors, Pelicans|website=ESPN|date=January 17, 2024|access-date=February 19, 2024}}</ref> On January&nbsp; 25, 2024, Siakam earned his first win as a Pacer in a 134-122 victory against the [[Philadelphia 76ers]], wherealso he recordedrecording his first triple double of the season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/401585255|title=Pascal Siakam has triple-double, Pacers end 76ers' winning streak at 6 with 134-122 victory|website=ESPN|date=January 25, 2024|access-date=February 19, 2024}}</ref> That same day, Haliburton was named an [[Eastern Conference (NBA)|Eastern Conference]] starting guard for the [[2024 NBA All-Star Game]], which was played in Indianapolis. This marked his second consecutive All-Star selection and his first selection as a starter.<ref>{{cite web |title=2024 NBA All-Star starters announced |url=https://www.nba.com/news/2024-nba-all-star-starters-announced |website=NBA.com |access-date=January 27, 2024}}</ref>

[[Market Square Arena]] was home of the Indiana Pacers from 1974 to 1999. The first Pacers basketball game ever held in the arena was a preseason game against the [[Milwaukee Bucks]]; attendance was 16,929. The first regular-season ABA game in the arena was held on October&nbsp;18, 1974, against the [[San&nbsp;Antonio Spurs]]; the Pacers lost in double overtime, 129–121 in front of 7,473 fans. The 1974–75 season ended for the Pacers with the ABA Finals played in Market Square Arena and [[Freedom Hall]] against their archrivals, the [[Kentucky Colonels]]. The Colonels defeated the Pacers in that championship series, winning the ABA title in five games. The 1975–76 Pacers won their final home ABA game in Market Square Arena with a 109–95 victory against the Colonels. (Kentucky won the next game by one point to win the series and advance, ending the Pacers' ABA tenure.) The Pacers continued to play in Market Square Arena after they joined the NBA, with their first game at the arena as an NBA team being a 129–122 overtime loss to the [[Boston Celtics]] on October&nbsp;21, 1976. [[Michael Jordan]]'s return to the [[Chicago Bulls]] after his first retirement took place at Market Square Arena in a loss to the Pacers on March&nbsp;19, 1995.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jumpman23.ch/joc_10_mj_02.jpg |format=JPG |title=Basketball photograph |publisher=Jumpman23.ch |access-date=May 9, 2015}}</ref> The final Pacers game to be played in Market Square Arena was a pre-season exhibition game against the [[Utah Jazz]] on October&nbsp;23, 1999.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/2001/07/08/Market-Square-Arena-torn-down/8905994564800/|title=Market Square Arena torn down|work=United Press International|date=8 July 8, 2001|access-date=12 December 12, 2022|location=Indianapolis}}</ref>

The Indiana Pacers play their home games at [[Gainbridge Fieldhouse]], which opened in 1999. Gainbridge Fieldhouse is located in downtown [[Indianapolis]] and is owned and operated by the Capital Improvement Board, City of [[Indianapolis]] and its groundbreaking was on July&nbsp;22, 1997, by [[Ellerbe Becket]] Architects & Engineers. Originally known as Conseco Fieldhouse, the arena officially opened on November&nbsp;6, 1999. The Fieldhouse is considered one of the best arenas in the NBA, being rated the best venue in the NBA according to the Sports Business Journal/Sports Business Daily Reader Survey.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/cfh_rankings_061206.html|title=Conseco Fieldhouse Ranked No.&nbsp;1 Sports Venue|publisher=NBA|date=6 December 6, 2006|access-date=30 November 30, 2022|work=Indiana Pacers}}</ref> The arena was renamed to Bankers Life Fieldhouse on December &nbsp;22, 2011, after a subsidiary company of Conseco. The arena adopted its current name on September&nbsp;27, 2021, being sponsored by Indianapolis-based financial platform Gainbridge. It presently seats 18,165 for basketball games, down from the original 18,345 due to removal of bleacher seats at the south end in favor of adding a premium club area known as Legends. Gainbridge Fieldhouse is also the home of the [[Women's National Basketball Association|WNBA]]'s [[Indiana Fever]], who are also owned by [[Herb Simon (businessman)|Herb Simon]] via Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E).

Most recently, theThe Knicks and Pacers next met in the [[2013 NBA playoffs|2013 Eastern Conference Semifinals]] with the Pacers upsetting the [[2012–13 New York Knicks season|Knicks]] 4–2. This series included Pacers [[2013 NBA All–Star Game|All–Star]] [[Paul George]], [[David West (basketball)|David West]], [[Roy Hibbert]], [[George Hill (basketball)|George Hill]], [[Lance Stephenson]], [[Tyler Hansbrough]], [[Gerald Green]], [[Ian Mahinmi]], and [[D.&nbsp;J. Augustin]]. The Knicks consisted of [[2013 NBA All–Star Game|All–Star]] [[Carmelo Anthony]], [[J.&nbsp;R. Smith]], [[Raymond Felton]], [[Tyson Chandler]], [[Jason Kidd]], [[Iman Shumpert]], [[Rasheed Wallace]], [[Kenyon Martin]], and [[Marcus Camby]]. The Pacers battled without [[2009 NBA All–Star Game|All–Star]] forward [[Danny Granger]] as he sustained a season–ending injury, while Knicks [[2011 NBA All–Star Game|All–Star]] big–man [[Amar'e Stoudemire]] also experienced limited playing–time due to injury. Following the season, [[Chris Copeland]] left the Knicks to sign with the Pacers.

| 82 || 47 || 35 || {{Winning percentage|47|35}} || 3rd, Central || TBDLost in Conference Finals, 0–4 ([[Boston Celtics|Celtics]])

! style="{{NBA color cell2|Indiana Pacers|border=2}};"|PlayerName

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders " style="text-align:center;"

!scope| colspan="row2"|[[HerbLarry SimonBrown (businessmanbasketball)|HerbLarry SimonBrown]]

|| Head Ownercoach || 1983–present1993–1997 || 20242002

*{{<sup|2}}{{note|a}}>1</sup> In total, Mullin was inducted into the Hall of Fame twice – as player and as member of the [[1992 United States men's Olympic basketball team|1992 Olympic team]].

*{{<sup|3}}{{note|b}}>2</sup> He also coached the Pacers in 1988.

*{{<sup|4}}{{note|c}}>3</sup> Inducted posthumously.

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders " style="text-align:center;"

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders " style="text-align:center;"

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders " style="text-align:center;"

! No. || [[SmallName forward|F]]| Position || 2006Tenure || 2022Inducted

[[Boomer (mascot)|Boomer]], the Pacers Panther, has been the official team mascot since the [[1991–92 Indiana Pacers season|1991–1992 season]]. Additionally, Boomer's role has been filled by the same person, even through the current season (2023). He used to have a partner, known as [[Boomer (mascot)|Bowser]]. He was a canine ("K-9") mascot that worked in tandem with Boomer. He was retired during the [[2009-10 Indiana Pacers season|2009–10 season]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Boomer the Panther – NBA Indiana Pacers Mascot|url=https://sportmascots.com/nba/boomer-panther-indiana-pacers/|work=Sport Mascots|access-date=12 December 12, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/remember-indiana-pacers-mascot-bowser-190808383.html|title=Remember Indiana Pacers' mascot Bowser? He's sorely missed|work=The Indianapolis Star|last=Benbow|first=Dana Hunsinger|via=Yahoo! Sports|date=3 December 3, 2021|access-date=12 December 12, 2022}}</ref>

{{Portal bar|Basketball|Indiana}}{{Authority control}}