Pacers waive guard Ethan Thompson, clearing two-way spot for Braden Smith
The transaction allows for Thompson to pursue an opportunity overseas while also opening one of three two-way slots as the rookie guard remains unsigned.
The Pacers waived guard Ethan Thompson on Thursday. The move allows for Thompson, who was signed to a two-way contract, to pursue an opportunity overseas.
According to Nova.rs, Thompson, 27, will head over to Belgrade, Serbia to play for Partizan in the EuroLeague.
A two-way contract is for half the rookie minimum — $678,882 for the upcoming season — and allows a player to be active with the NBA club for up to 50 games. That’s a significant jump from the standard G League salary of $45,000.
Heading into Summer League 2026 in Las Vegas, the biggest Pacers storyline was who would earn a two-way spot.
Five players were competing for three spots.
Taelon Peter. Jalen Slawson. Braden Smith. Kobe Brown. Ethan Thompson.
