Update on Pacers Gaming as the NBA 2K League considers its future
Pacers Gaming was an original franchise in the NBA 2K League back in 2018. Although the likeness of the team remains, players and coaches are out as the league reimagines its future in 2025.
Pacers Gaming, one of the original franchises in NBA 2K esports League, has dissolved its infrastructure and the future will look a lot different.
The name and likeness of the team still exists. Going forward, however, there are no players, coaches or staff members, league sources told Fieldhouse Files.
In addition, Pacers Gaming’s headquarters has been cleared out recently after seven seasons, and Fieldhouse Files has learned that it is being converted into a hub for the Pacers’ growing digital media team of more than 20 full-time employees.
The team’s setup had been among the best in the 2K League.
First announced on Dec. 12, 2017, Pacers Gaming was Pacers Sports & Entertainment’s fourth franchise — joining the Pacers, Fever, and Mad Ants. However, esports failed to take off as many had hoped and expected.
This move reflects the evolving landscape of esports, as the 2K League and its teams reassess the long-term viability. The league made the following announcement on July 2, which remains the landing page for their website.
The NBA and Take-Two are reimagining the NBA 2K League into a global digital entertainment business. Driven by a bold new vision, the future business will combine NBA and Take-Two brand assets and seek to engage consumers who live and play where pop culture, gaming and basketball collide. The venture will feature a new digital media brand, immersive live events and a revamped 2K competitive league.
The league originally hosted teams to New York City for games. Washington DC served as the hub the past two seasons, and downtown Indianapolis hosted in 2022 with a studio installed inside The Pavilion at Pan Am.