The Indiana Pacers are a professional basketball team based in Indianapolis, Indiana. They compete in the Central Division of the NBA’s Eastern Conference.
Known for their hardworking style and strong defense, the Pacers have long represented the competitive spirit of Indiana basketball.
Founded in 1967, the Pacers began in the American Basketball Association (ABA) before joining the NBA in 1976. The team’s name honors Indiana’s rich horse racing history, referencing the “pace car” used in the Indianapolis 500.
The Pacers’ colors, navy blue, gold, and white, symbolize unity, energy, and tradition. The franchise prides itself on discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to community.
Where Do the Pacers Play?
The Pacers play their home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, located in downtown Indianapolis. Opened in 1999, the arena seats about 17,200 fans for basketball games and offers one of the NBA’s most intimate viewing experiences.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse is known for its classic design that celebrates Indiana’s basketball roots. The building frequently hosts major sporting events, including NCAA tournaments and WNBA games.
Every home game delivers a blend of excitement, tradition, and pride that reflects the state’s passion for basketball.
History of the Indiana Pacers
The Pacers’ story began in the ABA, where they quickly became one of the league’s premier teams. Led by Mel Daniels, Roger Brown, and George McGinnis, the Pacers won three ABA championships in 1970, 1972, and 1973. Their early success established a winning culture that carried into the NBA.
When the ABA-NBA merger occurred in 1976, the Pacers faced financial and competitive challenges but continued to build around local talent and strong coaching. The franchise’s commitment to teamwork and defense kept them competitive even during rebuilding years.
In the 1990s, the Pacers reached new heights under head coach Larry Brown and later Larry Bird. With Reggie Miller leading the charge, Indiana became a consistent playoff contender.
Miller’s clutch shooting and fierce rivalry with the New York Knicks defined that decade for the Pacers. The team reached the NBA Finals in 2000, falling to the Los Angeles Lakers in a competitive six-game series.
The 2000s and 2010s brought several successful seasons featuring stars like Jermaine O’Neal, Paul George, and Danny Granger. The Pacers remained known for strong defense and a blue-collar work ethic.
In recent years, the team has focused on developing young talent such as Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin, signaling a new era of growth and excitement.
Interesting Facts & Team Milestones
- The Pacers are one of four ABA teams to join the NBA in 1976.
- Reggie Miller is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and one of the NBA’s greatest shooters.
- The team’s name was inspired by Indiana’s connection to the Indianapolis 500 pace car.
- Indiana has produced more professional basketball players per capita than any other state.
Notable Indiana Pacers Players
The Pacers have featured many stars who shaped their history:
Mel Daniels
A two-time ABA MVP and key figure in the team’s early championships.
Roger Brown
One of the franchise’s first stars and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Reggie Miller
The face of the Pacers for nearly two decades, known for clutch three-point shooting. Miller is known for sinking 9 points in 8 seconds against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the 1995 Eastern Conference Finals.
Jermaine O’Neal
A dominant inside presence and six-time All-Star during the 2000s.O’Neal is also one of the best players to be drafted out of high school.
Paul George
A two-way star who led the team deep into the playoffs in the early 2010s.
Tyrese Haliburton
The team’s modern leader and one of the NBA’s most exciting young playmakers.
Looking for more Indiana Pacers players? Check out our list of the best Pacers players of all time!
Notable Indiana Pacers Coaches
Throughout their history, the Pacers have benefited from strong coaching and leadership:
Bob “Slick” Leonard (1968-1980)
Guided the team to three ABA championships and helped shape its early success.
Larry Brown (1993-1997)
Revived the franchise and turned the Pacers into a consistent Eastern Conference contender.
Larry Bird (1997-2000)
Led the team to its first NBA Finals appearance in 2000.
Rick Carlisle (2003-2007, 2021-present)
Known for his strategic mind and player development, Carlisle guided the Pacers to several playoff runs and returned in 2021 to lead a new generation.