We focus on Tyrese Haliburton’s recurring left hamstring injury, why these injuries can be so difficult to overcome, and the challenges of returning to play.

Among the items discussed on this episode:

• Haliburton’s latest hamstring strain and his history of recurring injuries

• Why hamstring injuries are so complex and susceptible to recurrence

• The challenges of rehabilitation, treatment and determining when an athlete is ready to return

• How the hamstrings, lower back and other muscle groups work together

• Ben Sheppard and Aliyah Boston’s meniscus repairs — and why repair differs from removal

• The growing concern about injuries across the NBA and the challenges of prevention

Note: Reiff has not evaluated or treated the players discussed. His analysis is based on his experience in sports medicine, not firsthand knowledge of their specific injuries.

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The Pacers were shorthanded on Friday, in Miami for their first NBA Cup game. And to make their situation even worse, forward Obi Toppin was an afternoon scratch after his back locked up on him before morning shootaround.

That left the Pacers without six players, including four of their top seven players: Tyrese Haliburton, Ivica Zubac, T.J. McConnell and Obi Toppin.

All 11 available players played at least 11 minutes, and they held their own for the first 17 minutes. The Pacers led 54-46, but then the Heat went on a 34-9 run to take control of the game.

The Pacers trailed by as many as 25 in a 145-125 loss at Kaseya Center. And because it was an NBA Cup game, Miami played its starters inside of two minutes remaining — and then the Pacers used a timeout to draw up a play with 1.8 seconds to go, despite trailing by 20.

There wasn’t much good from the Pacers in this one. Quenton Jackson led the Pacers with 24 points, and Andrew Nembhard finished with 22 points and nine assists in 30 minutes. Former (and potentially future) Pacer James Johnson, who resides in Miami, was in the building for the game.

The Pacers’ limited roster allowed for rookie guard Braden Smith to score his first career point at the free-throw line with 2.6 seconds left in the third quarter. Fun, too, because it came against Giannis Antetokounmpo — and we all remember #GameBallGate up in Milwaukee a few years ago.

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Less than a week after Kelly Krauskopf stepped down as president and general manager Amber Cox was let go, Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines has taken the next step in reshaping the Indiana Fever front office.

“The organization will conduct a national search for the team’s next general manager,” the Fever announced in a statement on Friday.

PS&E has since hired Excel Search & Advisory to assist with the search, a league source confirmed to Fieldhouse Files. Search firms like Excel help organizations identify potential candidates, evaluate their qualifications and conduct background research. Excel Search & Advisory is led by president Chad Biagini.

It’s the same firm hired by the WNBA to conduct its search for the next commissioner.

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We sat down in May, during his first week on the job, to discuss his background, first impressions and vision for the franchise following its inaugural season in Noblesville.

Among the items discussed on this episode:

• Why he wanted to join the Boom, part of Pacers Sports & Entertainment

• His first priorities and plans to grow the team's presence in Central Indiana

• Lessons learned from previous roles with HBO, WWE and Warner Bros.

• The importance of community outreach, fan engagement and creating an affordable, family-friendly experience

• The advantages of playing at the new Riverview Health Arena at Innovation Mile

• His vision for building on the Boom's first season in Noblesville

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The new NBA season brought so much hope and promise for the Indiana Pacers. Tyrese Haliburton was returning from injury after he missed all of last season, and Ivica Zubac was ready to join the starting lineup and be a difference-maker.

Now one week into the season, both players are sidelined by injuries.

For Zubac, it was an unlucky ankle sprain after he stepped on a teammate’s foot while going for a rebound. But it is to the same ankle as last season.

For Haliburton, it’s a setback after he missed all of last season while recovering from a torn Achilles.

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The 3x3 league announced Wednesday that Boston will miss the 2027 season as she continues to recover from surgery she underwent two weeks ago to repair the lateral meniscus in her right knee.

Recovery from a meniscus repair, which preserves the tissue and is generally better for long-term knee health, is measured in months rather than weeks.

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Boston originally suffered the injury while playing in Unrivaled in late February. It caused her to miss the league’s championship game and the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament in March.

She opted to not have surgery so she could play in the WNBA season and represent Team USA at the World Cup in Berlin, where the Americans won gold.

“I definitely started the year with a lot of uncertainty,” Boston said during a three-minute exit interview. “I think there were definitely some games where I was hindered a little bit, and then obviously, we know I missed some games.

“So it definitely was a change for me, because I’m somebody that just loves to compete and love to play, and I never like to sit out. So it definitely had its impact, but we made it through a full season, so I’m always grateful.”

In her fourth WNBA season, she averaged a career-high 16.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game.

Boston signed a multi-year deal in August to return to Unrivaled, months after becoming the first player in WNBA history to sign a maximum contract extension via the EPIC provision.

Lexie Hull and Monique Billings, both of whom are under contract with the Fever for next season, are signed to play in Unrivaled in 2027.

Unrivaled also announced that they reached a mutual contract termination agreement with Kate Martin, Caitlin Clark’s close friend and former Iowa teammate.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Unrivaled for the opportunity to be part of its first two seasons,” said Martin. “It’s been special to help launch a league that continues to elevate women’s basketball. While I’m excited about what’s on the horizon for me, I’m so thankful for the people, the competition, and the memories I’ve made in Unrivaled.”

The Miami-based league plans to unveil rosters on Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. ET. The season begins on Jan. 8 at TD Garden in Boston.

The Noblesville Boom season is almost here.

The G League draft was held on Saturday. Training camp opened on Monday. And by next week, they’ll be ready to welcome fans to their home arena, Riverview Health Arena at Innovation Mile, for a family-friendly event.

The Pacers’ G League affiliate is inviting fans to come out to a free, open scrimmage on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the intrasquad scrimmage will begin at 6:30 p.m.

More on the event from the team:

The free and public event will give fans their first opportunity to meet the 2026-27 Boom roster and coaching staff, participate in family-friendly activities and interactive experiences, and get a first look at this year’s team during an intrasquad scrimmage.

Activities will include:

• Team and coaching staff introductions

• Boom intrasquad scrimmage

• Autograph sessions

• Photos with select players and Bobby the Bobcat

• Face painting and balloon art on the concourse

Doors will open at 6 p.m., and admission is free. Free tickets will be available beginning Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 10 a.m.

Prior to the event, the Boom will host a free youth clinic for children ages 6-14 from 5:15-6 p.m. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register for the clinic, click here.

The Boom have a new head coach in Bryce Taylor, who was promoted on June 1 after serving as an assistant for Tom Hankins the past three seasons (2023-26).

Taylor will be assisted by Herman Mandole, who joins from the Sioux Falls Skyforce, and Connor McCaffery, who spent the last two seasons on Thad Matta’s staff at Butler. Before that, McCaffery interned with the Pacers.

Kelly Faris returns for a second season as an assistant coach, and Christian Siakam will again serve as a coaching associate.

“I couldn’t be more excited about the coaching staff we’ve assembled,” said Taylor. “Herman, Connor Kelly and Christian each bring a unique perspective, valuable experience and a diverse set of strengths to our team.

“What unites us is a shared commitment to player development, collaboration and competing at the highest level. We’re aligned with the vision and values of the Boom and Pacers, and committed to creating an environment where our players can grow, compete and succeed.”

The scrimmage is an important exhibition for the Boom, who open the season on the road two days later with a back-to-back against the Windy City Bulls.

Their home opener is Nov. 10 against the Iowa Wolves.

The Pacers improved to 2-1 with a 136-109 win Sunday in Brooklyn. They ripped off a 41-point second quarter, then played a much cleaner second half to pull away for a convincing victory.

Coming out of halftime, the Pacers did a much better job of taking care of the ball, getting stops and pushing in transition before connecting on 3-poitners.

They committed just three turnovers after 12 in the first half. And following a 3-for-11 start from 3-point range, they finished the game with a season-high 21 3s on 43 attempts (48.8%).

“Good win for us,” Rick Carlisle said postgame. “Much needed. Pretty solid game. Pretty tedious in the first half, and then we got some traction at the end of the half, and we were able to get a little bit of separation.”

It was the third game and the third different starting lineup used — and just the first time for the primary five.

But that won’t become a streak this week.

Center Ivica Zubac stepped on the foot of teammate Kelly Oubre Jr. and tweaked his left ankle. He remained on the court for a few more possessions before being subbed out with 4:57 left in the first quarter, following a Nets timeout. He was replaced by Larry Nance Jr.

Zubac went back to the locker room with head athletic trainer Josh Corbeil and did not return to the bench.

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With NBA training camps complete and the regular season underway, the G League held its annual draft on Saturday afternoon.

It was a two-round draft with 62 selections. However, teams could pass when they were on the clock.

Jeremy Sochan — the San Antonio Spurs’ pick at No. 9 at the 2022 NBA Draft — was selected No. 1 overall by the Texas Legends, the Mavericks’ G League team. He won a championship with the New York Knicks last season.

The Pacers’ G League affiliate, the Noblesville Boom added two players to their roster.

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First, Boom general manager Chris Taylor selected Maleeck Harden-Hayes with the 19th overall pick.

He’s a 6-foot-7 forward out of the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He played five years of college basketball, including his first three years at North Dakota State University. He averaged 10.4 points and 4.1 rebounds during his final season.

Harden-Hayes spent last year, his first as a pro, playing in Portugal.

Then, in the second round, the Boom drafted Austin Benigni at No. 41 overall.

He’s a 5-foot-10 guard out of Navy.

Benigni was a three-year starter and the Midshipmen’s leading scorer. He averaged 18 points on 42.4% shooting, including 44.1% from range, during his senior season.

He led the Patriot League in free-throw percentage (88%) and scored at least 20 points in 14 games as Navy posted its beat season in a quarter-century.

He was the recipient of the Lou Henson Award for the top mid-major player in the nation

The Boom open training camp on Monday, Oct. 26 at the Ascension St. Vincent Center in downtown Indianapolis, with Game 1 set for Nov. 6 at Windy City.

Also of note: The Oklahoma City Blue selected former IU guard Trey Galloway with the 36th overall pick. The Carmel, Ind., native spent last season with the Santa Cruz Warriors after going undrafted.

It had mostly been quiet on the Indiana Fever front less than a month after their season ended with a first-round exit. But behind the scenes, things have been stewing.

There were exit interviews, follow-up conversations and many discussions after the team fell short again. They won 28 games and reached the postseason, but, as Caitlin Clark previously stated, it’s not to be celebrated; it’s an expectation.

It’s the standard.

The goal from before training camp was to win a WNBA Championship and they fell short.

The Fever announced in a 10 a.m. press release on Friday that Kelly Krauskopf, the original architect of the franchise, was stepping down from her post after being with Pacers Sports & Entertainment for 27 years — dating back to 1999, a year before the Fever's inaugural season.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunities, relationships, and shared accomplishments that have shaped my time with this organization,” Krauskopf said in a statement.

“The Fever is poised for an exciting future, and I am proud to have helped lay the foundation for its continued growth and success. I will always cherish my time with Pacers Sports and Entertainment and the people who made it so meaningful.”

Then, more than eight hours later, the organization confirmed what many, including Fieldhouse Files, were reporting: Amber Cox, general manager and chief operating officer, was fired after two seasons.

“The organization will conduct a national search for the team’s next general manager,” the organization said.

The timing on all of this was not ideal. It was a classic Friday news dump, done when you hope the news gets lost in the weekend.

This day was supposed to belong to the Pacers, as All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton was excited to play in the home opener. It was a ‘gold out’ at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Excitement was building and a sellout crowd showed up to welcome back Haliburton.

It was also owner Herb Simon’s birthday.

The longest-tenured NBA owner turned 92 years old. But between this Fever front-office shakeup and the Pacers playing poorly Friday night, in a home loss to the Dallas Mavericks, it was not a good day.

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Pacers guard Ben Sheppard will be sidelined for at least several weeks after sustaining a torn meniscus in his left knee.

Sheppard was added to the injury report on Thursday with knee soreness. On Friday, a few hours before their home opener against the Dallas Mavericks, the Pacers updated his designation to a meniscus tear.

There’s no specific timetable for his return, and the Pacers have not announced whether Sheppard will require surgery.

A meniscectomy (removal) is more common than a repair, which Fever center Aliyah Boston recently underwent. A meniscectomy generally allows for a shorter recovery period. The type of procedure chosen depends largely on the type and location of the tear.

“Following a meniscectomy, players can often return to activity within six weeks,” according to Jeff Stotts of InStreetClothes.com. “Games lost due to meniscus injuries among NBA players is not dependent on which meniscus is damaged.”

Sheppard had three points and four fouls in 12 minutes in New Orleans on Wednesday in the Pacers’ season-opening win over the Pelicans.

He played five minutes, 31 seconds in the third quarter, but did not return in the fourth quarter. Quenton Jackson stepped up, playing 6:23 in the final frame.

“The hero of the game was Quenton Jackson, who came in and immediately there was a four-point swing in the second half,” head coach Rick Carlisle said postgame. “And then he earned his way into crunch time. That's what we need. We need guys playing their hearts out. Anything else isn't going to get us there.”

Elsewhere on the roster: Johnny Furphy is rehabbing a torn ACL, T.J. McConnell missed the entire preseason with a right hamstring strain, and Aaron Nesmith is on a minutes restriction because of a left hamstring strain. He was held out of the season opener.

Sheppard — the 26th overall pick in 2023 — appeared in 65 games last season, making 20 starts. He’s in the final season of his rookie contract.

A new Pacers season got underway Wednesday evening in New Orleans, with excitement building for this team and the return of Tyrese Haliburton.

It had been a long, long time since the Pacers played meaningful basketball. Their last regular-season game was more than six months ago, on April 12, when they were lottery-bound and several players had already been ruled out for the season.

Opening night brings renewed hope. Locally, fans believe this is a championship-contending team. Nationally, there’s more uncertainity, particularly with so many talented teams in the Eastern Conference.

After all, that’s why you play the games.

Here are my running thoughts from the Pacers’ 123-120 win over the Pelicans — as their first victory at Smoothie King Center since Jan. 4, 2021, snapping a five-game losing streak in The Big Easy.

1. Haliburton played in three of four preseason games, but this was his first game of consequence in 486 days — since Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. He’s beyond ready for this moment, even planning his outfit — walking in with a Triple H theme (from WWE). He’s going to have a handful of firsts this season, and this was another one. A big one.

2. Outstanding intro video by DAZN just before tip-off, especially getting Haliburton’s mom, Brenda, to voice it. She prefers to remain in the background so this was significant.

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It all begins Wednesday night (8 p.m. ET) for the Indiana Pacers — and 21 other teams.

But before then, the 2026-27 NBA season tipped off on Tuesday with a special triple-header on NBC, beginning with an Eastern Conference matchup in the afternoon.

It was something different, and it was appreciated. Especially the emphasis on earlier games rather than having stars out West tipping off after 10 p.m. The NBA is a global game, and you can be sure those in other time zones appreciated it, too.

Both and Detroit got the season started, with the Celtics blowing a 22-point lead in the loss. Former Pacer Paul George turned back the clock in his Celtics debut, scoring 38 points in 30 minutes and beginning the game 6 of 8 from 3-point range.

Then, Madison Square Garden looked spectacular for the Knicks’ championship ring ceremony. Not one person was sitting.

Former players were recording the whole thing, and some were selected to present rings to executives and coaches. Walt “Clyde” Frazier distributed rings to the players, which was different from most teams. Usually, it’s the owner and commissioner presenting them.

Ring Night is always special. A dream realized for most. And one last grand celebration before turning the page to a new season.

Well done by NBC to air it all, as well as team introductions.

I know, Pacers fans. That had to be difficult to watch, if you watched at all.

We all know that the Knicks didn’t have to go through the Pacers en route to their championship. After all, it was Indiana that ended New York’s season the previous two years.

Even Tyrese Haliburton — who is friends with several players, including Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges — had little interest in watching them win it all for the first time since 1973.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Good for them,” Haliburton said at his camp in late June.

You can be sure it’s just another chip on his shoulder.

At the least, Haliburton had to smile seeing Tyler Kolek win a championship in his PUMA Hali 1s.

The Pacers’ All-Star point guard is back after missing all of last season, and he already has another edge — feeling disrespected that his first regular-season game back isn’t at home or on national television.

Instead, the Pacers open on the road in New Orleans, with a local broadcast rather than a nationally televised showcase for the entire country to enjoy.

Haliburton looked good in the three preseason games that he played, including clearing another mental hurdle by returning to Oklahoma City, where he suffered the injury.

“Oh, my body feels great. I feel great moving, I feel great playing. My body just feels great in all honesty. Never felt this strong.”

That was in June. So imagine how much better he’s feeling four months later, and now 16 months removed from surgery to repair a torn Achilles.

He’s slowed down and become more deliberate with his decision-making and movements since returning to game action at Iowa State. Now, like the rest of the team, he’s working to get into game shape.

That will come in time.

He’s about 205 pounds and wants to get down to 200. And with the starters playing only about 17 minutes in each preseason game, there hasn’t been much opportunity to build up to a regular-season workload.

“There’s a difference between NBA shape and Tyrese Haliburton shape,” he said. “I’ll get there, but I feel great. I had to take these 12 months in stride and figure out what positives I could add to that. There haven’t been many, but try to do what I can.”

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The time away wasn’t with some important milestones. Haliburton launched his first signature shoe, bought a new house, got married, and returned to the game he loves.

He’s grateful.

Haliburton, who hadn’t experienced a major injury in his career, no longer takes his health for granted. And he has plenty of motivation — most of all, to make the most of every opportunity he’s on the court.

“It’s been a long journey to get here,” he told reporters after practice Tuesday, “and I think preseason was a good starting point.”

During the preseason, the Pacers led the league in assists (33.8). They ranked fifth in rebounding, up from 17th last preseason, and fifth in blocks.

Those were both encouraging. But turnovers (22), fouls, and health remain concerns entering the regular season.

And after opening in New Orleans — a stretch with three of four games on the road — the Pacers return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday to host Cooper Flagg, Kyrie Irving and the Mavericks.

The Eastern Conference is as competitive as ever. Although the Pacers are process-driven, that doesn’t mean they don’t have their sights set on returning to the NBA Finals.

But it’s one day at a time.

There’s plenty to sort out, and the Pacers won’t have all the answers in New Orleans. But after a lost season, the biggest piece is back in place. Now comes the challenge of getting this group whole, establishing chemistry (especially with newcomer Ivica Zubac) and returning to the standard they’ve set for themselves.

Pacers Begin Season Without Two Key Pieces

The Pacers were never whole in the preseason. And that will continue into the regular season.

T.J. McConnell was limited in training camp by a right hamstring strain, while starting wing Aaron Nesmith missed the final two games with a left hamstring strain.

Both have already been ruled out for Wednesday’s opener.

That opens the door for free-agent addition Kelly Oubre Jr. to start in place of Nesmith. He’s a versatile 6-foot-8 wing who started in 84% of his games over the last four seasons. So it’s nothing new for him.

And, as you already know, Johnny Furphy continues to rehab a torn right ACL.

What NBA Officials Will Be Watching

Before each season, the NBA releases detailed videos explaining the areas officials will be watching most closely.

For the last several years, the league — led by Monty McCutchen, senior vice president and head of referee development and training — has also hosted reporters on an hour-long Zoom call to provide further explanation and answer questions.

It was informative, and I’ll have more on it soon.

For now, here are the league’s points of emphasis and areas of focus entering the season:

• Off-arm push-offs

• Freedom of movement

• Straight-line pathway plays

• Screening

• Flopping

• Game administration — delays affecting gameplay

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Local Broadcast Moves to DAZN

There’s no change to the on-air talent, but how you watch Pacers games will be different this season.

FanDuel Sports Network is out and DAZN is the new local streaming home.

Here's the inside story of how the partnership came together.

Chris Denari and Quinn Buckner begin their 21st season together. Jeremiah Johnson returns to the sidelines for a 13th season, and Eddie Gill is back for his 11th season. Gill also continues as Mark Boyle’s analyst on radio.

DAZN, which is distributing games for 10 of 30 teams, is offering a free seven-day trial for Pacers fans — and no credit card is needed. You just need to sign up with your email.

If you join by the end of the month Oct. 20, you can get at least 40% off. It’s $59.99 for the Standard package, which allows two streams in one location, or $79.99 for the Ultimate package, which includes several perks, highlighted by up to five streams in two locations.

And 22 regular-season games will be available for free through the DAZN app.

Click here to sign up.

And nationally, here’s a reminder of where you can find games.

After enjoying Sunday off, the Pacers returned to work Monday with their attention now on meaningful games — and the next six months dictated by the NBA schedule.

The preseason began with a 123-112 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on a special night, where Tyrese Haliburton returned to game action for the first time in 16 months.

But that was the only game of four that the entire starting lineup was available.

At least one key player was sidelined for each of the final three exhibitions, limiting the team’s opportunity to build chemistry and establish a rhythm before the regular season.

The biggest issue hasn’t been the play on the court, but rather a series of hamstring strains. At least four players have dealt with one in the first month: Larry Nance Jr., T.J. McConnell, Quenton Jackson, and Aaron Nesmith.

All but McConnell, who sustained the same injury last preseason, appeared in at least one exhibition game. The first injury report will be out Tuesday afternoon.

The starters played roughly 18 minutes per game in the preseason, creating plenty of opportunities for the reserves and players expected to spend more time in the G League.

The Pacers dropped their final three tune-up games by a combined five points, including back-to-back overtime losses. Neither of those extra sessions was particularly welcome in the preseason.

• vs. Hawks 119-117

• at Thunder 114-112 (OT)

• vs. Bucks 128-127 (OT)

Now it’s officially game week. The 2026-27 regular season begins Tuesday with a triple-header on NBC: Celtics at Pistons, 76ers at Knicks, and Thunder at Spurs.

And for the Pacers, they’ll watch those games from their New Orleans hotel as they tip-off a new season near The French Quarter on Wednesday night.

Before then, they made three necessary roster moves on Saturday, waiving James Johnson, Keba Keita and Rienk Mast. Keita and Mast will join coach Bryce Taylor’s Noblesville Boom team.

“We have a lot of things to improve on, really on both sides of the ball,” coach Rick Carlisle said after practice on Monday. “We’ve made some improvements, but it’s going to be an ongoing thing.

“You never are all the way to your destination. There’s always going to be work, and adjustments, and the continued need for attention to detail with everything.”

One thing is clear: the Pacers are thrilled to be playing with wins on their mind again.

“I think it’s just exciting to get back in the gym with a bunch of guys where we feel like we have a real chance to win this year,” said guard Andrew Nembhard.

Haliburton Clears Mental Hurdle in OKC

Haliburton originally wasn’t planning to play in Oklahoma City during the preseason.

But after tweaking his right ankle in the opener at Iowa State and sitting out the next game against Atlanta, he reconsidered. He wanted to play in at least three exhibition games after missing 16 months, which meant returning to the very court where he tore his Achilles in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

“I think it was just more like a mental hurdle than anything,” he said. “But after not playing game two, I decided that I’d probably need some more game reps, so it’d probably be better for me to play. I thought I would feel something a little different or feel a type of way going in there, but you know, I didn’t really think about it once I got in and started playing basketball.

“It was good to kind of rip the band-aid off in a sense, not allow a place to have that mental hold on me.”

For one half, it looked like Haliburton had picked up right where he left off. He was playing like he did before the injury, and reopened plenty of what-if questions for fans about Game 7.

He checked that experience off, finishing with 24 points on 9-of-14 shooting in 18 first-half minutes.

“He’s a professional and he treated the thing very professionally — and went in there and played his ass off,” Carlisle said.

Haliburton appreciated seeing shots going down. He adjusted his pace and settled in more after his adrenaline was off the charts in the first game.

“I feel like I did a lot better job slowing down,” Haliburton added. “I think that helped our group…”

The Pacers’ assist numbers were high in the preseason, but so were the turnovers. They want to continue to play fast and random. There will be growing pains and more time is needed to connect on the court.

“We got to figure each other out,” Pascal Siakam said after the preseason. “We got to continue to obviously have Ty back. He’s a big part of what we do. Just trying to figure out a way to have him get back on the floor, figure out Zu (Ivica Zubac).

“Mostly for me, preseason is just getting in shape, trying to figure out my teammates’ tendencies and things like that. I put a lot of work into my game. I’m really never worried about anything. I just go out there and play the game.”

In the meantime, they’re working on establishing that chemistry while also getting in game shape — something that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

“We use these games to get in shape and obviously, it’s going to take a couple more games into the regular season to really, really get in real shape,” Siakam added. “But I feel good about where we’re at. We got a lot to get better on.

“We got a lot of film that we’re going to watch and a lot of data that we can study and on how we can be better and improve as a team.”

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News and Notes

• The deadline passed on Monday for rookie extensions. Fourth-year players Jarace Walker and Ben Sheppard, both 2023 first-round picks, enter the final year of their contracts.

• The home opener on Friday will be a gold out and every fan in attendance will receive a t-shirt. It’s a good one. Click here for more.

• Want to know what uniform the Pacers are wearing for a certain game? NBA’s Locker Vision has now been updated. The Pacers will be in white (Association Edition) on Wednesday, then debut their gold pinstripes (Statement Edition) Friday against the Mavericks.

• DAZN has local broadcast rights for 10 teams, including the Pacers: Hornets, Pistons, Knicks, Spurs, Magic, Timberwolves, Nets, Cavaliers and Grizzlies. Have you streamed a game yet? If so, let me know how it went…

• Click here to sign up.

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• Make sure you are subscribed to my Fieldhouse Files podcast. Click here for the latest episode.

• Bryce Taylor recently completed his first staff by hiring Herman Mandole as an assistant coach. Mandole was most recently with the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

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But two days later, on Friday, there will be a party at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Not only is it the home opener, but it’s also Tyrese Haliburton’s first meaningful home game since June 19, 2025. (Easy for me to remember — it’s my birthday.)

That was Game 6 of the NBA Finals. He missed all of the 2025-26 season with a torn right Achilles.

So Friday, 491 days later, will be a special moment Haliburton and Pacers fans who have waited a long time for his return. The Pacers host the Dallas Mavericks at 7 p.m.

All fans in attendance will receive a gold t-shirt with “INDIANA” across the front and a net in the shape of the state of Indiana.

Haliburton and the Pacers had just one true home preseason game, an overtime loss Friday to the Milwaukee Bucks. He finished with seven points and six rebounds in 16 minutes of action.

“It’s special, man,” Haliburton said of the loud ovation he received. “I don’t take basketball for granted. I don’t take the opportunity to be healthy and be back on the floor doing what I love for granted.

“This state and this fan base means a lot to me. So it’s very much so appreciated and I’m ready to get to the real games.”

One week later, he’ll get to play in front of the home crowd when the games count. And you can be certain that he’ll receive another loud ovation when he’s introduced last during pregame introductions.

The Pacers will be wearing their new Jordan Brand Statement Edition gold pinstripe uniforms.

Two of the most popular women in the world were together on Sunday.

Indiana Fever All-Star Caitlin Clark joined global music superstar Taylor Swift in her suite at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City as the Chiefs handled the Los Angeles Chargers 22-6.

The Chiefs (5-0) are one of just three remaining undefeated NFL teams, along with the 49ers (6-0) and Vikings (5-0) — who host the Colts this upcoming Sunday.

There’s not many who can relate to Clark’s worldwide appeal and the demands that come with being superstar. LeBron James is one, and Swift is certainly another.

This wasn’t Clark’s first visit to the suite, which is located near midfield, just below the television booth (as seen in the photo at the top). Clark, a West Des Moines native who grew up a Chiefs fan, has attended games there in previous seasons.

Also in the suite were Boom assistant coach Connor McCaffery, who is dating Clark, and Tommy Alter of “The Old Man and The Three” podcast.

Clark has appeared on Travis and Jason Kelce’s “New Heights” podcast. He also sent the brothers pairs of her Nike Caitlin 1 shoes ahead of the launch of her first signature shoe, along with a pair for Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.

Click here to watch highlights of the Chiefs’ win.

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The Pacers waived James Johnson, Keba Keita and Rienk Mast on Saturday.

Opening Night rosters must be set by Monday, Oct. 19 at 5 p.m. ET. By completing the moves on Saturday, the Pacers allowed time for the players to clear waivers before the deadline and avoided an additional day of salary.

The Pacers now have 14 players on standard contracts, as expected, along with three on two-way days. They are currently in the luxury tax and operating close to the first apron, where they are hard-capped.

They could bring back Johnson — or sign another player — next month, once the prorated cost of a veteran minimum contract fits below the apron.

That’s the hope with Johnson, but the plan could change depending on results, injuries or another player becoming available.

Johnson was signed to a training camp contract (Exhibit 9) on Sept. 22.

“He’s a tone-setter,” Carlisle said after practice this week.

“He’s a great leader in the locker room. He’s a great practice player. He’s working with players on situations and all kinds of different things. And, you know, our guys love him. They have great respect for him.”

As for Keita and Mast, both signed Exhibit 10 deals, making them eligible for bonuses if they spend at least 60 days with the Pacers’ G League affiliate, the Noblesville Boom.

The standard G League contract is $46,350 this season, and players on Exhibit 10 deals can receive a bonus up to $50,000.

The Pacers already signed and waived six other players expected to join the Boom: Kowacie Reeves Jr.., Jalen Warley, Keion Brooks Jr., Cameron Hildreth, M.J. Iraldi, and Wade Taylor IV.

In addition, two-way players Braden Smith, Jalen Slawson and Kobe Brown will see time in Noblesville playing for first-year head coach Bryce Taylor.

Pacers Depth Chart

PG: Haliburton, Jackson
SG: Nembhard, Sheppard
SF: Nesmith, Oubre Jr., Walker
PF: Siakam, Toppin
C: Zubac, Huff, Nance Jr.

OUT: McConnell, Furphy

Aliyah Boston underwent surgery on Wednesday to repair the lateral meniscus in her right knee, the Indiana Fever announced on Thursday. The surgery was performed by Dr. Corey Kendall at OrthoIndy.

“Boston will begin the rehabilitation process with the Fever’s medical and performance team, and further updates will be provided as they become available,” the team said.

She sustained the injury in late February while playing at Unrivaled — and it was something she knew she’d have to deal with until a break in her schedule.

Boston had five points and five rebounds in just over 12 minutes on Feb. 27, her final game of her second season at Unrivaled, the Miami-based 3x3 league. Her team, Phantom, beat Lexie Hull’s team, Rose, 72-68.

She did not play the following week in the semifinals against Vinyl or the championship game against Mist due to what the league described as a “right lower extremity” injury.

And just imagine how much a player must be hurting to sit out of a championship game.

Boston did, though, and Phantom lost to Mist 80-76. Mist outrebounded Phantom and shot 56% from the field. Boston’s interior presence was certainly missed.

Boston stayed with her team through the finals, then returned to Indianapolis for a full evaluation. Throughout the WNBA season, the Fever officially described it as a “right lower leg” injury.

But as I reported on here, more than seven months ago, the injury was specifically to her right knee. “The injury is to the meniscus in her right knee and treatment is underway. For now, surgery is not required.”

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The knee injury caused her to withdraw from playing with USA Basketball in the FIBA Women's World Cup qualifying tournament in March. And it caused her to miss four of 44 regular-season games this past WNBA season.

After the season, Boston opened up about the challenges of playing through the injury.

“I definitely started the year with a lot of uncertainty,” Boston said during a three-minute exit interview. “I think there were definitely some games where I was hindered a little bit, and then obviously, we know I missed some games.

“So it definitely was a change for me, because I’m somebody that just loves to compete and love to play, and I never like to sit out. So it definitely had its impact, but we made it through a full season, so I’m always grateful.”

Exit interviews include meeting with the training staff for a full evaluation. A procedure was expected.

“We’ll be talking and seeing what we want to do from there,” Boston said, “but nothing’s decided yet.”

The decision ultimately led to surgery on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

An important distinction: The procedure was a meniscus repair, not a removal.

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Among the items discussed on this episode:

• Early preseason observations and what stands out

• Several players in and out of the lineup due to injuries

• Wanting to see more from Haliburton-Zubac pairing and the starting five

• Pacers add a fifth uniform — and a matching home court for seven games

• A look at the new NBA Cup court for 2026-27, what I like and what’s different

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The Pacers are back in Oklahoma City on Tuesday, returning to the city where their 2025 NBA Finals run ended.

Tyrese Haliburton made the trip for the first time since suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Game 7. Whether he’ll play is another question.

And the plan is for him to be out there.

The Pacers are halfway through their four-game preseason slate after coming up short to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, 119-117.

“We’re gonna have to do better with turnovers, we’re gonna have to do better with fouling and rebounding was a problem so those are big areas of concern,” head coach Rick Carlisle said after the game.

The Pacers allowed at least 31 points in each of the first three quarters, were outrebounded 49-35, and there were 62 combined free throws.

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Game 7 of the NBA Finals was the last time we saw Haliburton play in a meaningful game.

Despite missing all of last season to rehab, Haliburton accompanied the team on every road trip until he developed a bad case of shingles — with one notable exception: Oklahoma City.

He wasn’t ready. He didn’t want to return only to have hundreds of thoughts racing through his head as he watched from the bench, unable to contribute on the court.

The NBA does not have injury reports during the preseason, but we know from multiple photos shared on the Pacers’ social media that Haliburton is on the trip.

That’s notable because he also sat out of Saturday’s game after tweaking his right ankle during his emotional return to the court earlier in the week at Iowa State. That’s unlucky — and not ideal for a player who needs game reps to build up for the regular season, and to play alongside newcomer Ivica Zubac and others.

Haliburton was limited in practice on Friday and underwent an MRI.

Then on Monday, Carlisle was brief in his answers to Tony East after practice, saying that Haliburton did not have any limitations and he’d share who was out before the game the following day.

This definitely has my attention, as does Aaron Nesmith after he didn’t look completely comfortable in his final minutes against the Hawks.

None of the starters for either team played in the fourth quarter, which was won by the Pacers 31-23.

Larry Nance Jr. (six points, five rebounds) returned against the Hawks after tweaking a hamstring about one month ago before training camp. T.J. McConnell has not yet played due to a hamstring.

“He’s a knowledgeable, veteran player with feel,” Carlisle said of Nance Jr., “who knows how to play the game. He’s been a good defender and rebounder in his career, and he’s just very smart and a good communicator.”

Hali Ween

After the game on Saturday, Haliburton hosted an early Halloween party for his teammates and friends. He called it “Hali Ween.”

Well played.

The Pacers will be back in Indy on Oct. 31 after playing in Miami the night before — what will be their fourth game in six days. So they’ll be tired.

Entire Pacers Roster Attends Community Pop-Up

Another week, another pair of renovated basketball courts were unveiled by the Pacers Foundation on Friday.

I was on the east side of Indianapolis, about 20 minutes from downtown, as they held a community pop-up for the neighborhood. A ribbon-cutting for the two basketball courts was the featured event at Grassy Creek Regional Park.

Warren Township Schools are on fall break, so hundreds of kids were able to attend the afternoon event, play knockout and enjoy their updated neighborhood courts. Even better, the entire Pacers roster arrived in two charter buses to spend an hour at the event.

There were also multiple food trucks, a half-dozen bouncy houses, giveaways, a photo op with Pacemates and more to engage with the local community.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett was on hand for the ribbon-cutting and he delivered remarks.

The Pacers Foundation’s “State of Play” initiative has renovated more than two dozen basketball courts across the state to promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen neighborhoods and build local pride.

More to come from the event…

Ronald Nored Makes Butler Coaching Debut

Former Butler point guard Ronald Nored made his debut as the men’s basketball coach on Sunday as the Bulldogs hosted Darian DeVries’ IU program in what was the first exhibition game of the season for both clubs.

It’s crazy that the college basketball season has arrived already.

For Butler, it was the chance to play someone else on their court, fill historic Hinkle Fieldhouse and face an in-state foe. For Indiana, it was their lone chance to play a true road game during the non-conference portion of their schedule.

Both rosters are almost entirely new, so neither program knew exactly what to expect.

It was close in the first half, with the Hoosiers holding a 44-41 halftime lead.

Butler got to within one in the second half, 54-53, and then it was all IU after that. The Hoosiers went on a 32-4 run as the Bulldogs endured a dry spell, ultimately finishing the game shooting 36% from the field.

IU’s size and depth stood out as they were +20 on the glass en route to a 96-68 win in the first tune-up game of the season.

Next up, IU faces North Carolina at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday. The Tar Heels are coached by former NBA head coach Michael Malone.

It was also great to see Brad Stevens, president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics, make it back to Indy to support Nored — a former player of his taking over the program.

He received a loud ovation when he was introduced late in the first half.