Watch scrimmage highlights from Pacers FanJam 2023 (Video)
Watch scrimmage highlights from Pacers FanJam 2023 (Video)
The starters were upset, losing to the Blue Team 51-44.
The Pacers held their annual FanJam event last Saturday (Oct.14) and the sold-out crowd appeared to have a great time inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Tickets sold out quickly, then fans were treated to an intrasquad scrimmage that had the intensity of a preseason game with bragging rights on the line.
On media day, head coach Rick Carlisle announced the change in approach. And it seemed to pay off.
One day after the White Team (starters) dominated in a closed scrimmage 44-29 to stay in the team locker room for FanJam, the Blue Team responded well and was in full control of Saturday’s 20-minute game.
The Blue Team never trailed and won 51-44 — leading to the White Team running afterward as a consequence.
Buddy Hield led all scorers with 18 points and T.J. McConnell had 10.
“We were really pleased with the turnout,” Carlisle said. “I saw where it was sold-out almost immediately, I’ve never seen a sold-out FanJam ever.”
Assistant Mike Weinar coached the winning team.
“There was a lot of competitive edge,” he said, “and I think, from Day 1 in training camp, coach (Carlisle) and our front office has talked about that. We’re trying to bring that competitive edge one through 18. I think you saw that today as representation.”
Note: Andrew Nembhard (kidney stone) was the only player unavailable.
*FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS:* Watch scrimmage highlights below.