Biggest Takeaways From Pacers Media Day

Alex Golden is joined by Tom Lewis of Indy Cornrows to break down everything they learned from a LOADED Indiana Pacers Media Day!

There was no bigger storyline than Tyrese Haliburton.

After missing all of last season, Tyrese made it clear that he's ready to get back on the court. Alex and Tom discuss what stood out from Haliburton's comments, the excitement surrounding his return and what his presence means for a Pacers team trying to rediscover the magic that carried it to the NBA Finals two seasons ago.

Then, it's time to talk BIG ZU.

Ivica Zubac discussed the process of building chemistry with Haliburton and Pascal Siakam and how their collective basketball IQ has helped accelerate that process. Zubac also shared an interesting comparison between the Pacers and the Croatian national team, pointing to the camaraderie and genuine relationships within both groups.

How quickly can this new trio come together? And how will Indiana's style change going from Myles Turner to Zubac in the middle?

Alex and Tom dive into the differences between the two centers and why Zubac's arrival could unlock a different version of this Pacers team.

The guys also discuss Pascal Siakam's continued evolution as a leader, what they learned about newcomers Kelly Oubre Jr. and Larry Nance Jr., and how the veteran additions are already fitting into Indiana's culture.

Rick Carlisle also provided some fascinating perspective on the past and present.

Alex and Tom react to Carlisle reflecting on his relationships with former Pacers players and discuss the growing bond between Haliburton and Reggie Miller, bringing together two different generations of Pacers basketball.

But Media Day wasn't only about what they heard.

It was also about what they didn't hear.

There wasn't much discussion surrounding Jarace Walker, Johnny Furphy or Ben Sheppard, raising some interesting questions about where each young player currently stands entering training camp.

From Haliburton's return and Zubac's fit to Siakam's leadership, the newcomers, Carlisle, Reggie Miller and some under-the-radar storylines, Alex and Tom break down their biggest takeaways from Pacers Media Day and everything that stood out as Indiana officially begins the 2026-27 season.

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