Pacers owner Herb Simon named a finalist for Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2024
Herb Simon has owned the Indiana Pacers since 1983 and he's now one of 14 finalists for the prestigious basketball hall of fame.
Two months ago, Indiana Pacers owner Herb Simon was named a first-time nominee for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Now, he’s one step closer.
On Friday, before the Celebrity Game at NBA All-Star Weekend, Simon was named one of 14 finalists for the Hall of Fame Class of 2024. The announcement was held inside the Colts locker room at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Simon, 89, bought the Pacers with his late brother, Mel, in 1983 for $11 million and has now owned the franchise for 40 years. He’s the longest-tenured owner in NBA history.
“He has been a force of innovation and constructive change over the years,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this year. “I think other governors in the league would say he has done extraordinary service to the league.”
The new class will be announced on April 6 in Phoenix at the NCAA men’s Final Four.
The other 13 finalists who the Honors Committee will consider for election as members of the Class of 2024: Chauncey Billups, Vince Carter, Michael Cooper, Walter Davis, Bo Ryan, Charles Smith, Seimone Augustus, Marian Washington, Harley Redin, Michele Timms, Doug Collins, Jerry West.
"Being named a Finalist for the Class of 2024 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is a testament to the highest echelons of achievement in the sport,” said Jerry Colangelo, Chairman of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
“It's an honor that reflects not only individual greatness but also the long-lasting impact on the game itself. From the strategic brilliance of coaches to the unmatched abilities of players and the influential roles of a coach/broadcaster, an esteemed owner, and a dynasty-building executive, each Finalist embodies the pinnacle of basketball excellence. Their inclusion underscores the diverse contributions that have shaped and enriched the sport, making this recognition truly exceptional.”
Throughout his ownership, Simon has subscribed to a hands-off approach — to where he’s informed on everything going on, but he empowers those he hires to do their job.
In his time owning the team, he’s had three leaders of basketball operations: Donnie Walsh, Larry Bird and Kevin Pritchard.
“In the beginning, I didn’t even have time to mess with the Pacers,” he said back in Dec. 2021. “I was busy making a living. (Laughs) I would call Donnie once in a while. Now, I have more time, I’m more involved, I’m on the phone a lot with Kevin and I really like the group he’s put together. I’m having fun, even though losing is not fun.
“I’ve been in it a long time at this thing and the beautiful thing is I still enjoy it. And I really believe it’s a team for the community also. I’m very sensitive to the community and being responsible to our community that’s been very supportive of us.”
Pacers Sports & Entertainment now consists of the Pacers, Fever, Mad Ants, Pacers Gaming and Pacers Foundation.
“He saved the franchise by purchasing the franchise at that time, taking on a lot of debt, and has built it into one of the model franchises,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said in December. “His acts of philanthropy are legendary, and he’s a guy that doesn’t ever seek attention. So, this is very well-deserved of him.”
Though none of it is warranted, I take a lot of pride in the Simon’s 40+ year ownership. I appreciate it so much. And as Voltaire once said, “that’s the beautiful thing about appreciation, it makes what belongs to you belong to me as well, and thus is twice blessed.”