Fieldhouse Files: Scott Agness on the Indiana Pacers
Scott Agness
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Fieldhouse Files is a Pacers podcast from reporter Scott Agness, who's been around The Fieldhouse since 2003. He delivers comprehensive coverage of the team, tracking how the Pacers are performing on the court as well as going deep into stories about the team off the court.
Available episodes
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Oldest first
May 8, 2023
Mad Ants are Indy bound with a full rebrand coming
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’m talking about the Pacers’ G League affiliate, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, who are officially moving to Indy, playing home games at a proposed arena in Noblesville, Indiana and will be undergoing a full rebranding. Fort-Wayne based Mad Ants reporter Justin Cohn joins to discuss.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
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Another “very significant day” for Pacers Sports & Entertainment
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A full breakdown of what went down Monday
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What this move means to the Mad Ants and Pacers
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Then, Justin Cohn on how the Pacers failed the Mad Ants (12:00)
Pacers Sports & Entertainment officially bought the Mad Ants on Sept. 9, 2015.
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Apr 21, 2023
That's a wrap on the Pacers' 2022-23 season
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, let’s review this past season: a 10-win improvement on last year, exceeding expectations but also returning to the script and in the lottery for the third straight offseason. And hopefully it’s for the last time in a decade.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
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Adapting in my 11th season on the Pacers beat
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A year without expectations, instead about growth and development in Year 2 of a rebuild (5:25)
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The four who had career seasons (14:45)
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Two areas that must be improved for next season (23:20)
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Two of their five draft picks unknown and what to root for (30:00)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Mar 7, 2023
Remembering David Benner with Conrad Brunner, and an Aussie's visit to Indy
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’ll touch on the Pacers’ four-game road trip, the offensive showcase in a loss to the 76ers; then bring on former Pacers writer Conrad Brunner to share memories of longtime PR director David Benner … and then Justin, a Pacers fan from down under and part of The Paceroos Podcast, talks about his visit.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* 3-1 road trip, morning shootaround at Buddy Hield’s home and a team dinner at a Dallas steakhouse.
* Using the road trip to continue to build, grow and coming together as a team while principles are reinforced. (4:30)
* A pitiful performance in San Antonio, but George Hill was home and started.
* Tyrese Haliburton continuing to elevate his game. (8:40)
* Krissy Myers on Benner (12:40)
* Remembering DB with Conrad Brunner (14:10)
* Justin on his Indy experience, flying in from Australia to attend two games (31:46)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Feb 27, 2023
Pacers in February: Turner's extension, trade deadline moves, scenes from All-Star weekend
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’ll get you caught up on a very busy February for the Indiana Pacers. A contract extension, action at the trade deadline and many representatives at All-Star weekend.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Pacers being 27-35 — losing 16 of 19 games entering the break
* Why Myles Turner’s contract extension made sense for both sides
* Pacers waiving Goga Bitadze, Terry Taylor and James Johnson to complete the trade — then bringing Johnson back
* Buddy Hield beating Reggie Miller’s record for 3s in a season
* My Salt Lake City experience
* The questions to players that were so aggravating on media day
* Six players representing the franchise, plus over 70 representatives from Indy to scout it out for next year
* Kendall Brown having season-ending surgery (the news broke during the recording)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Jan 11, 2023
Pacers (23-18) at the midpoint — with analyst Eddie Gill
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, it’s time for a midseason report. TV analyst (and former Pacer) Eddie Gill joins to break down the Pacers’ first 41 games.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* The 23-18 start and how surprising it has been … to everyone
* His role as an analyst on Bally Sports Indiana and the Pacers Radio Network (1:25)
* On the Pacers’ magic in the first three months and quickly coming together (3:45)
* Impact of Tyrese Haliburton (6:45)
* How players know their roles and they’re ego-free (11:15)
* Biggest surprise/breakout player not named Andrew Nembhard (14:00)
* Rick Carlisle evolving as a head coach (17:30)
* Getting Chris Duarte involved and going (22:40)
* Managing and improving on their slow starts (24:30)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Jan 5, 2023
Pacers piling up wins, playing with joy and what it means for the trade deadline
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll get you caught up on all that’s happened in the last few weeks with the Pacers, discuss what’s special about this group, Tyrese Haliburton leading the way, considerations at the trade deadline and much more.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Change in fan expectations? (2:30)
* The Pacers’ surprising start and what’s working well (5:45)
* Strong Pacers representation for each monthly NBA award (9:00)
* Role players shining and a few players outside the rotation (15:00)
* Considerations leading up to the trade deadline (17:00)
* A breakdown of Myles Turner’s situation and future (20:30)
* Haliburton’s candidacy for the All-Star game (27:30)
* Chris Duarte trying to recapture his role (30:43)
* My experience at the G League Showcase (34:30)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Nov 22, 2022
Return of the (Michael) Grady, TV voice of the Timberwolves
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss the Pacers’ great start to the season (10-6) and what’s working. Then, I’ll be joined by Indy’s own Michael Grady, now the television voice of the Minnesota Timberwolves on Bally Sports North.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Pacers’ early-season success and the contributing factors (2:30)
* Bench success and Myles Turner embracing his role (7:43)
* Notable stats — second in assists, third in 3-pointers (10:50)
* Grady on his new role and the first month (14:45)
* His mom passing away on Aug. 8, deciding soon after to take the job (15:30)
* What he learned from Ian Eagle, who always “meets the moment” (22:10)
* How he thinks so highly of Slick & Nancy Leonard and is incorporating “BOOM!” into broadcasts (24:30)
* Pacers finally back on track and committed to excellence? (27:00)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Nov 3, 2022
NBA reporter Jake Fischer on leaguewide issues, lessons from The Process, and the present Pacers
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m bringing in a national perspective. I’m joined by Jake Fischer, senior NBA reporter for Yahoo Sports.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Jake on how attention and storylines are all on issues off from the court (5:38)
* His takeaways from The Process after starting on the 76ers beat with Liberty Ballers (11:30)
* The key for the Pacers and other teams amidst a rebuild (16:45)
* Pacers being all-in on Tyrese Haliburton — and his maturity (23:10)
* Why would the Pacers want to deal with the Lakers? (26:20)
* Pacers’ pursuit of Deandre Ayton (33:00)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Oct 28, 2022
Takeaways from the Pacers' first week
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I look back at the first week of games, share my takeaways and other stories you may have missed.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Rick Carlisle returning home to celebrate his daughter Abby
* Myles Turner’s left ankle sprain, how it happened and then returning in Chicago
* Nuggets from recent stories: Trevelin Queen, Mathurin’s homemade meal, City Edition jersey design confirmed, KP’s message to fans and more.
* Daniel Theis’ current status (18:40)
* Team issues from the first week — defense and starts to games (20:00)
* Player observations (24:43)
* Bennedict Mathurin’s strong start and a teaching moment (30:27)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Oct 4, 2022
Pacers President/COO Mel Raines on $360M in renovations to Gainbridge Fieldhouse
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, Mel Raines, president and & chief operating officer of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, makes her first appearance on the show. We discussed the significant improvements made to and around Gainbridge Fieldhouse, what the new setup is like and what to expect.
“It’s very much a new building that people will be coming back into this fall,” she said.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Oct. 4, 2022 being 500 days out from the 2024 NBA All-Star Game.
* Notable change at training camp and two names I hear repeatedly.
* How the Pacers will treat the preseason and a few things I’ll be watching for.
* Then … Mel provides a throughout update on Phase 3 of renovations. (11:30)
* Dates when certain areas will be completed, including the new Kroger SkyDeck.
* How the plaza could be utilized — sunrise yoga, happy hour concerts, farmers market, etc.
* Her path from IU to politics to sports — and now having a significant role. The Details
* Total of $360 million spent on upgrades, plus another $18 million in capital expenditures or necessary upgrades.
* First event back: Oct. 2, Post Malone
* Team Store reopens: Oct. 3, plus a new store on the balcony level at games
* Kroger SkyDeck: Targeting the end of November to open
* Bicentennial unity plaza: Projecting to be done May 2023
* Entertainment complex building: End of 2023; restaurant, speakeasy and an entertainment space just east of the plaza.
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Sep 25, 2022
Pacers camp preview — with Tony East
The summer is over for the Pacers… On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, Tony East of Locked on Pacers joins to discuss the Pacers’ offseason and key storylines entering training camp, which begins on Tuesday.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Return of a normal offseason
* Remaking of the roster, prioritizing durability
* Committing to a rebuild and finally having a direction
* What are they going to do about the excess bigs? Is there a role for Goga Bitadze or Daniel Theis?
* Does it make sense to keep Buddy Hield?
* Lance Stephenson isn’t coming back; Will James Johnson or Langston Galloway be the vet this team needs? (16:15)
* Myles Turner … mentioned in trades again … entering a contract year … coming off injuries (21:50)
* Rick Carlisle entering Year 2 (28:15)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Sep 6, 2022
Pacers' schedule is out and what Bally Sports' new deal means for fans
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss the Pacers’ 2022-23 season schedule being out — four preseason games and another 82-game slate. Then, I’ll get into the team re-upping with Bally Sports and how it directly affects you — the fans.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Opening the season Oct. 19, home for their first three games.
* How many fans will be seeing improvements to The Fieldhouse for the first time.
* Four exhibition games scheduled, including a home-and-home against the Knicks.
* Key home opponents to mark down. (13:45)
* Bally Sports remaining the local TV home of the team. (15:25)
* Reporting on the announcers being sent on the road again. (17:50)
* A new option, Bally Sports+, for those on streaming services or do not subscribe to a cable package. (20:02)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Aug 2, 2022
Tyler Marsh on two seasons with the Pacers and his coaching journey
These are the conversations I love having. It’s why I launched the podcast in the first place back in 2015.
To peel back the curtain and introduce you to members of the team behind the team.
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m sitting down with Tyler Marsh. He’s coached at all levels, most recently on staff with the Pacers the past two seasons and is now working with Becky Hammon and the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* His whirlwind year — finishing the season with the Pacers, joining the Aces and expecting his first child in Sept.
* Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek, a close friend of Becky Hammon’s, connecting Marsh and then attending the first week of training camp. (5:48)
* On two unique seasons with the Pacers and growing up a fan of the team. (8:20)
* Getting paired with players for workouts, pre-game warmups. (14:20)
* His role with the Aces and taking on more responsibilities. (17:24)
* How this past…
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Jul 19, 2022
On Summer League and the Pacers' pursuit of Deandre Ayton
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m back from NBA Summer League and will go through my experience out in Las Vegas and how the Pacers did. Then discuss the Pacers doing something they’ve never done before. That’s offering restricted free agent Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns. And while they eventually lost out on him, I think they’ve made progress from where they were one year ago.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Why summer league is my favorite NBA event.
* Chris Duarte played in one game and is still bothered by a toe injury. (5:15)
* Ronald Nored running the Summer Pacers. (7:30)
* Takeaways from the games. (9:00)
* NBA awarding championship rings now for SL. (15:00)
* Aaron Nesmith joining the team — and why the delay. (18:45)
* The pursuit of Deandre Ayton. (24:00)
* Waiving four players prior to the offer sheet. (34:30)
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Jul 6, 2022
Jalen Smith returns with promised role, a new normal for signings?, trade rumors, more
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss Jalen Smith staying with the Pacers after being considered a long shot to re-sign, where they stand with free agency, several former Pacers landed deals elsewhere — and more.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* What enticed Jalen to remain with the Pacers. (3:00)
* The exact terms of his deal.
* End of NBA moratorium — but they wait to sign in front of an audience. (6:45)
* Makeup of the roster right now, the latest on Myles Turner. (11:45)
* Deandre Ayton? (14:15)
* T.J. Warren and Edmond Sumner off to Brooklyn. (18:00)
* Thoughts on the summer league squad. (20:30)
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Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.
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Jul 1, 2022
Pacers draft Mathurin, move Brogdon, bring back Smith; Jared Weiss on Boston trade
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I recapped my time at the NBA Draft, then discussed free agency. The Pacers were quiet on Day 1, then checked off a few key items. Among them, dealing Malcolm Brogdon to the Boston Celtics — so later, I’m be joined by Jared Weiss of The Athletic in Boston to discuss.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* My experience in New York for the NBA Draft.
* Two things that were different at the draft v TV.
* How Bennedict Mathurin was the Pacers’ guy all along.
* Characteristics in players they are after.
* Why Tyrese Haliburton was with Mathurin before the draft.
* An elaborate introduction for the three draft picks… (14:45)
* Free agency/Brogdon trade (19:40)
* Jalen Smith … back!? Wow. (26:50)
* What’s up with T.J. Warren? (29:40)
* Updates on Edmond Sumner, Lance Stephenson (31:00)
* What’s left in free agency — Myles Turner? DeAndre Ayton? (35:20)
* Jared Weiss on Brogdon’s change in attitude, p…
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Jun 21, 2022
Pacers draft preview, plus Ryan Carr after player workouts
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, it’s time to talk about the NBA Draft. The Pacers have three picks, including their highest selection since 1988. And they have the potential to add another lottery selection.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Warriors winning their fourth title in eight years; and there are several staff members with Pacers/Indiana connections.
* Rick Carlisle’s first draft fully involved. He was hired one year ago Friday.
* What I see and enjoy watching most at pre-draft workouts. (Full list of players)
* Pacers’ latest addition to the front office.
* Which trades make sense and trying to align draft classes.
* Five very good options at No. 6, starting with Jaden Ivey.
* Having zero interest in Shaedon Sharp. All bad vibes.
* How the front office spends the next few days.
* Lastly, hear from Pacers executive Ryan Carr about this draft.
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Jun 5, 2022
Duane Washington Jr. and Fever assistant coach Jhared Simpson
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, you’ll hear my interview with Duane Washington Jr. from the 500 Festival Parade and then I’ll introduce you to someone who has been around The Fieldhouse for a while. That’s Jhared Simpson, now a Fever assistant coach, who came up through the video room.
Among the items discussed on this episode with Simpson:
* How coming up through the video room is helpful for aspiring coaches, like it was for Frank Vogel and Erik Spoelstra. “The best coaches are the best thieves,” he joked.
* Why it was a good move from the video room to the bench — taking a coaching role with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. “You don’t have the rewind button any more.”
* What his experience has been like working under Hall of Fame coach Marianne Stanley.
* How the women’s game is more of a tactical game.
* Realities of the WNBA — short season, small rosters (12) and just 12 teams, now due for expansion.
* Inside the draft room and the characteris…
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May 24, 2022
NBA hits Chicago: Inside the draft lottery and combine, plus Pacers GM Chad Buchanan
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll share my experience from Chicago — inside the drawing room at the draft lottery and attending the draft combine. Then, I answer fan questions.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* The NBA world gathering in Chicago.
* Being one of two local reporters inside the drawing room at the draft lottery.
* 1-on-1 with Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan immediately afterward. (15:00)
* Full schedules last week for team evaluators.
* Value of the draft combine — for players and teams.
* Plus, your questions answered.
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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May 16, 2022
Deep dive on the Pacers and a segmented last few years — with Caitlin Cooper
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll tell you who will represent the franchise at the draft lottery, discuss an option Pacers fans may have to watch games next season … and then I’ll be joined by Caitlin Cooper of Indy Cornrows. This is her first visit on the podcast.
This offseason for the Pacers is about simplification, identifying who is on the roster and what playing style and schemes fits this group — then making a leap.
This is her first visit on the podcast. And we had no shortage of topics to discuss.
* Getting into writing about the Pacers, starting during the 2013-14 season.
* State of the franchise and the top priority being defense, which ranked 28th last season.
* Her reaction to swapping Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton and why they “nailed the trade deadline.”
* What Myles Turner could look like offensively next season.
* Future roles of Duane Washington Jr., Terry Taylor and Oshae Brissett.
* Positions that needed to be upgrade…
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May 5, 2022
Wrapping up the 2021-22 season, looking ahead to a critical Pacers offseason
The Pacers completed their worst season since 1984-85 with just 25 wins. A redirection and reset was necessary, but it cannot become the norm. It’s good to be back behind a microphone and talking with you once again. This one is just me — and there’s a lot of ground to cover.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Facts and figures that define this past season.
* The need for an identity, a leader and most of all, good health.
* The Cavaliers failing the themselves and the Pacers, thus retaining their 2022 first-round pick.
* Clarification on Rick Carlisle speaking out.
* Missing out on the playoffs and a few Pacers motivated to go through that experience.
* Why the Pacers have more open home dates in March the next two seasons.
* Players' contracts situation.
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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Mar 9, 2022
Kings reporter Sean Cunningham on The Trade acquiring Haliburton and Hield
Sean Cunningham is a reporter covering the Sacramento Kings for ABC10 and the Kings Radio Network. This was a fun conversation on the Pacers-Kings trade involving six players. He is a big fan of Tyrese Haliburton — the person and player.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Reaction in Sacramento and a disruption to the Kings’ core
* Whether the Kings needed clarity at its guard position
* What will ultimately make this deal worthwhile for the Kings
* Analysis of Buddy Hield’s game and how he can be a frustrating player
* Haliburton’s personality and charisma
* Why there’s so much to like about him and his game
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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Mar 1, 2022
Pacers' new direction, Haliburton impresses and what to watch for
There are just six weeks left in the regular season, and Indy is lively with the NFL Combine, Big Ten and Horizon League basketball tournaments in town — and there was a lot of Pacers subjects to touch on.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Pacers on the road for 6 of 7, the end of one streak and continuation of another.
* Playoffs are out of sight, so now what? What to watch for and what we need to see more of.
* Two Pacers assistant coaches made decisions about jobs elsewhere.
* Tyrese Haliburton shining in his first seven games in Indy.
* Haliburton-Brogdon backcourt, and why Brogdon’s timeline doesn’t match.
* All-Star weekend, Haliburton in Rising Stars and Larry Bird's absence.
* How Oshae Brissett has thrived since The Trades.
* Being limited in their ability to re-sign Jalen Smith.
* A surprising local TV note to pass along.
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substa…
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Feb 9, 2022
Trade deadline talk after Pacers finalized two deals in 72hrs
I expected the Pacers to be active at the trade deadline and they have been. First, agreeing to deal Caris LeVert to the Cavaliers for cap space + draft assets, then a major six-player deal with the Kings centered on Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* The Pacers’ new direction and why both deals made sense
* LeVert’s 13 months in Indiana
* Haliburton surprising availability and the Pacers being thrilled to land him
* What I’ve been told about him and his booming, charismatic personality
* Why they’re likely not done yet
* What this means for Myles Turner and Malcolm Brogdon
* Lance Stephenson signing for the rest of the season
* Why forward Reggie Perry is ineligible to play
* and A LOT more
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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Jan 19, 2022
Changes inevitable for Pacers? Then, Mad Ants GM Chris Taylor, Fever asst. Carlos Knox
The Pacers are 15-29 and have lost 13 of their last 16 games. I get into where they are at, plus a few injuries concerns to Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner.
Then, you'll get TWO interviews. First, with Mad Ants general manager Chris Taylor, who started with the Pacers back in 2012. And then Carlos Knox on returning to the Indiana Fever as a WNBA assistant.
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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Dec 31, 2021
Lance Stephenson returning to the Pacers. Skills trainer Rob Blackwell discusses his growth
Fan favorite Lance Stephenson will soon be a Pacer for a third time. The Pacers plan to sign the guard to a 10-day contract, league sources told Fieldhouse Files. On this podcast, I talk about the move and then am joined by Lance's skills trainer, Rob Blackwell, to discuss his development and new approach.
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Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast.
Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.
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Dec 10, 2021
The need for clarity, Turner speaks out, Carlisle tests positive — inside the Pacers' busy week
Where to begin… It was an active week for the Pacers off the court. Are they serious about a rebuild, what to make of Myles Turner speaking out and Rick Carlisle enters the heath & safety protocols.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Head coach Rick Carlisle testing positive for COVID-19, to miss several games; Lloyd Pierce to fill in.
* Inside Tuesday’s practice and a closed-door meeting with the core players.
* Myles Turner making his position known, wanting to be valued and maximized.
* How Kevin Pritchard messed up big time.
* Why it is a favorable trade market for the Pacers.
* Undefined and limited roles for several players.
* Your questions answered.
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For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anythin…
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Nov 25, 2021
Kevin Bowen on his radio show, sports media and what to make of the Pacers
Kevin Bowen is a proud Hoosier, a Cathedral HS and IU grad who is now the co-host of “Kevin & Query” on 107.5 The Fan in Indianapolis. He can be heard from 7-10 a.m. ET each morning. We covered a lot of ground on this show.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Settling in with the new show and his co-host, Jake Query.
* Taking pride in being a voice in his hometown.
* How he prepares for the show and getting up around 4:30 a.m.
* Success of Hard Knocks, the Manningcast and podcasts.
* Offseason Pacers changes, running it back with the same personnel and health concerns.
* Fan attendance, viewership concerns and apathy setting in.
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For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis.…
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Nov 18, 2021
1-on-1 with Damjan Rudež on deciding to retire, playing for the Pacers
Damjan Rudez spent just one season with the Pacers, but he quickly became close with the team and was appreciated by fans. On this episode, Damo opens up on his decision to retire from basketball at 35 and how his one year with the franchise "remains the highlight of my career.”
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Why now and the factors that went into his decision.
* How he plans to fill the time with family, coaching and broadcasting.
* Other teammates deciding to retire recently, like Ian Mahinmi, and hearing from his Pacers family.
* Feeling crushed when he was traded to Minnesota, and learning about the business of basketball.
* His experiences with the Timberwolves and the Magic, reuniting with Frank Vogel in Orlando for a season.
* The value of playing professionally as a teenager and being pushed by veterans.
* The conditions in Croatia amid the ongoing pandemic.
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For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for…
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Nov 15, 2021
Lauren Roa on the process of creating the Pacers' City Edition Mixtape Uniform
On this episode, I’m joined by Lauren Roa, the senior director of merchandising and retail, to discuss the Pacers Team Store and the new City Edition Mixtape Uniform — from concept to on the court and in her store. She’s now on her sixth season in this role.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
* Newly-renovated team store at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which is open Monday-Saturday 12-5 p.m, and is innovative, has improved lighting. They’re focusing on technology and experience, in addition to products. Like at games, it is a cashless experience.
* What happened to the giant basketball and Boomer inside the store.
* How ‘90s items and throwbacks have become among the bestsellers, along with the jersey of lottery pick Chris Duarte.
* Her background in merchandise, working at Finish Line for eight years, returning after previously being an intern to run the team store.
* The detailed process to design (three years ago) and launch a new uniform, working in conjunc…
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Nov 7, 2021
A check in after 10 games, Caris LeVert returns, T.J. Warren update & more
On this episode, I go solo from the road ... and share my thoughts on the Pacers' 3-7 start, the unfavorable schedule, what's up with home games, a cautious ramp up for Caris LeVert, plenty of injury updates, and why all the talk about the Wilson basketball?
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For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis.
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Oct 29, 2021
Exit Interview: J. Michael on beat reporting and covering the Pacers
J. Michael Falgoust spent the last three years covering the Pacers for the Indianapolis Star, but he recently departed to become the sports editor at the Orlando Sentinel, where he got his start in the business. He discussed his new role, then we got into the craft of beat reporting, how it's often misunderstood — and then covered his time in Indy writing about the team.
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Oct 22, 2021
Eddie White on a new season and renovations to The Fieldhouse
Eddie White knows everybody and has an enthusiasm for life you have to appreciate. He once hosted a daily sports talk show in Indy, and now continues to host the Pacers postgame radio show. On this episode, we talked about the Pacers' opening-night loss in Charlotte, Chris Duarte shining, renovations to Gainbridge Fieldhouse and why he enjoys being on the air after each game.
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Oct 8, 2021
Chris Denari enters Year 16 as the TV Voice of the Pacers
On this episode, we discuss his game prep, what they have in store on Bally Sports Indiana, what he's observed in camp practices, rookie Isaiah Jackson's development, the need for a huge improvement defensively, a rough schedule to start the season and how the 2020 season was just finishing one year ago...
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Oct 4, 2021
Media day, first week of camp, and injuries — with Jeff Stotts of InStreetClothes
A new season is here. Within the last week, The Fieldhouse was renamed, opened to full capacity and the Pacers completed six practices. Before preseason games, I shared my observations from camp, highlighted a few new things and then brought Jeff Stotts of InStreetClothes.com on to discuss the three players sitting out due to injuries: LeVert, Warren and Sumner.
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Sep 15, 2021
Tales and Takes from Las Vegas — with Sam Amick
It was sooo good to be back. Summer League in Las Vegas returned and I had a productive time last month. On this episode, I talked about what it was like covering the team and shared some observations, then The Athletic's Senior NBA Writer Sam Amick joined to discuss his experience, the Pacers' failed experiment with Nate Bjorkgren, Rick Carlisle replacing him, how small-market teams can compete & much more.
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Aug 24, 2021
Catching up on a very busy Pacers offseason
I covered a lot of ground on this episode. ... Updates on a couple players spending time in other countries, thoughts on the Bucks' title, the Pacers' impressive coaching staff and their responsibilities, Lloyd Pierce wins gold with Team USA, a few other hires, Brogdon leading a player mini-camp in LA, Chris Duarte and Isaiah Jackson added in the draft, re-signing T.J. McConnell, a funny story about Doug McDermott literally moving out, where Keifer Sykes and DeJon Jarreau fit in on two-ways, Goga Bitadze's absence, news about Lance Stephenson, a HUGE Mad Ants story, Cassius Stanley on the outside, Myles Turner hitting reset and Rick Carlisle evaluating his roster.
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Jul 23, 2021
Lloyd Pierce named Carlisle's top assistant. On the disconnect in Atlanta — with Chris Kirschner
Rick Carlisle has worked quickly to fill out his staff, and he's hired Lloyd Pierce as his top assistant.
Pierce, 45, was the Hawks head coach for two and half years, going 63-120 in 183 games. He was replaced midseason by Nate McMillan, who pushed them to the conference finals. Chris Kirschner of The Athletic joins to talk about Pierce, a breakdown in relationships and where he needs to improve. Plus, his biggest accomplishment from the past year — which goes beyond basketball.
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Jul 2, 2021
Carlisle lays out his plans, then ESPN's Tim MacMahon on what to expect
The Pacers held a Zoom press conference on the final day of June to reintroduce Rick Carlisle to media and fans. From his home in South Carolina, he spoke for nearly an hour and touched on a little bit of everything. On this episode, you'll hear his opening remarks and then Tim MacMahon from ESPN joins. He's in Dallas, covered Rick for the last decade and offers a ton of insight.
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Jun 25, 2021
Rick Carlisle returning to Indy with unfinished business
The Pacers made a huge hire Thursday, agreeing to a four-year deal with Rick Carlisle to become the head coach for a second time. Here are my thoughts on the course correction, Carlisle arriving with instant credibility and the significant investment from ownership.
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May 19, 2021
Pacers-Wizards play-in preview with Fred Katz
The Pacers got contributions from all over to beat the Hornets 144-117 and keep their season alive. They play the Wizards Thursday at 8pm; it's their third meeting in 18 days. I talked about the Pacers' play-in victory and then looked ahead to Thursday's elimination game with Fred Katz, Wizards beat reporter for The Athletic. (The winner becomes the 8-seed and faces the 76ers.)
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May 17, 2021
Pacers-Hornets play-in preview with Rod Boone
The Pacers (34-38) finished one game ahead of the Hornets (33-39) and thus host their play-in game Tuesday at 6:30pm ET. The Pacers' injury list is long and they went 1-2 vs the Hornets this season. Rod Boone covers them for SI and joined me to look ahead to this must-win game.
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May 15, 2021
Tamika Catchings on her career and Hall of Fame weekend
Tamika Catchings had a remarkable basketball career, winning at every level. She's a first ballot Hall of Famer. She played her entire professional career with the Fever and has called Indianapolis home since being drafted by the team in 2001. On this podcast, I go 1-on-1 with Catch before enshrinement weekend in Connecticut, the influence of her presenters (Alonzo Mourning and Dawn Staley), what she's most proud of — and a couple of stories from my time working with her.
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May 7, 2021
Pat Boylan on the pandemic's impact on his job, filling in on PXP, and losing Slick
Pat Boylan is in his seventh season on the Pacers Radio Network, serving as the sideline reporter and studio host. We discussed how our jobs in media are different this season due to the pandemic, the passing of Hall of Famer Slick Leonard, filling in for Mark Boyle on play-by-play and how Pacers broadcasters started their own gameday shootaround.
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Apr 22, 2021
State of the Pacers: Where they are and where they're headed — with Derek Schultz
The Pacers are 27-31 and on the outside of the playoff picture with 14 games remaining. Injuries are piling up, they're getting handled in 4th quarters and the team is underachieving. Derek Schultz, co-host of "Query & Schultz," joins me to discuss their relevance locally and the challenge to even watch games, the offseason coaching change and then Derek shares why they can't simply run it back next year.
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Apr 16, 2021
David Craig, longtime Pacers athletic trainer, shares stories about Slick
David Craig knows Slick Leonard better than most. He was the Pacers athletic trainer for 35 years and while Slick was the coach, they were roommates on the road. Craig shares stories of Slick, how he gave money to those in need, how he was fiery during games and then required players to stop by The Pub after games. You'll enjoy this one...
Click here for my breaking news story on him passing.
And here's how the Pacers honored him at the game that night.
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Apr 15, 2021
Remembering Slick Leonard — with Mark Montieth
Indiana lost an icon Tuesday morning. Bobby "Slick" Leonard passed away in his sleep; he was 88. He lived a joyful, fulfilling life with his wife Nancy by his side for 66 years. ... I'll share my thoughts, a few highlights from my interviews with him and then Mark Montieth joins for an in-depth conversation on Slick, who was beloved by all.
Click here for my breaking news story on him passing.
And here's how the Pacers honored him at the game that night.
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Apr 5, 2021
Visit Indy's Chris Gahl on Indy coming alive again thanks to March Madness
Bankers Life Fieldhouse hosted 43 games in 40 days, and Indianapolis served as the only host of the entire NCAA men's basketball tournament. Chris Gahl is the Senior VP of Marketing & Communications with Visit Indy, an organization tasked with bringing events to town. Gahl discusses how the city is coming alive again, being the envy of other cities that see how Indy is getting it done, shifting the NBA All-Star game to 2024 and renovations to The Fieldhouse.
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Mar 24, 2021
Butler coach LaVall Jordan on Caris LeVert and coaching him at Michigan
Butler basketball coach LaVall Jordan coached Caris LeVert for four seasons while an assistant coach at the University of Michigan (2012-16). Jordan discusses UM getting in late with LeVert, how he developed into one of the best players in the country and simply loves to hoop. We also touched on these unusual times — which doesn't allow for LeVert to visit Butler practice or for them to even hang out. But they are now in the same city and continue to talk frequently.
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Mar 6, 2021
Cassius Stanley before the slam dunk contest, Mad Ants GM Brian Levy
Pacers rookie Cassius Stanley is one of three contestants in the 2021 All-Star slam dunk contest in Atlanta and the first-ever player invited who's on a two-way contract. He's spent the five weeks away from the Pacers in the G League bubble. He discusses the invitation, weighing the pros and cons, reaching out to two former Pacers who were in the event, his passion for the dunk contest and how he's preparing for his time in the spotlight — which will be seen by millions in more than 215 countries worldwide. (2:35)
Then, I catch up with Mad Ants GM Brian Levy from inside the bubble after they wrapped up the 15-game regular season, going 6-9 and missing the postseason. (18:44)
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Feb 17, 2021
Donnie Walsh on retiring, his life in basketball, drafting Reggie Miller and more
Donnie Walsh was the longtime architect of the Indiana Pacers. He first joined the franchise in 1984 as an assistant coach, but coaching wasn't his end game. He earned a law degree and wanted to run a franchise — and two years later, he became general manager.
On Dec. 30, 2020, Donnie Walsh he finalized his decision to retire after giving his life to the game. This is his first extensive interview and we covered a lot of ground — from playing at UNC to getting into coaching, aspiring to run a team, the evolution of the game and much more.
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Feb 12, 2021
Pacers President Rick Fuson on what was supposed to be Indy's All-Star Weekend
It's Feb. 12 and Indy should be buzzing with thousands of guests from across the world. But the pandemic interrupted plans for Indy to host the 2021 NBA All-Star game. Rick Fuson, the President and COO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, is my guest this week to discuss what was supposed to be Indy's weekend, when they knew it would all be moved and how volunteers are helping out with the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
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Jan 22, 2021
Nets TV analyst Sarah Kustok on Caris LeVert and why fans will love him
Sarah Kustok is part of the NBA's best local TV broadcast, serving as the Nets game analyst on the YES Network. She's covered the Nets since 2012 and was there when Caris LeVert joined the franchise in 2016. Since the Pacers acquired LeVert in a four-team trade, the first call I made was to Kustok to learn even more about what the Pacers were getting.
“I don’t even think he’s scratched the surface of the player that he’s going to become," she said.
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Jan 18, 2021
The Trade, LeVert, leverage and more Pacers news
This is a news-packed episode of the Fieldhouse Files. I start off with updates on my own work, then get into the Victor Oladipo-Caris LeVert trade, the discovery of a small mass on LeVert's kidney, Myles Turner's right hand and other news. ... Then, listen to Pacers president Kevin Pritchard's full conversation with reporters on LeVert's health and why they chose NOT to void the trade.
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Dec 31, 2020
Donnie Walsh moves on, Jared Weiss on the early success, Hayward and Oladipo
It's the final episode of 2020. To close it out, I touch on longtime Pacers executive stepping down from his role as Pacers consultant and the role he had in running the franchise and then Jared Weiss of The Athletic joins to discuss the Pacers' early success, new coach Nate Bjorkgren, no trade being completed for Gordon Hayward and Victor Oladipo's options in the offseason.
Thanks for listening this year, and Happy New Year!
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Dec 28, 2020
3-0 start and what it's like now covering a Pacers game
It was a positive first week of the season for the Pacers: 3-0, Sabonis was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week and the roster is impressed with its coach. On this episode, I catch you up on a couple transactional moves, then discuss the first week of games, adjustments made and a couple role players who have excelled. Then, I share what it's like being at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for a game under the current conditions — and without fans.
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Dec 17, 2020
Jason Buckner — former Pacers scout now with the Pistons
Jason Buckner was a manager for IU basketball and coach Knight, he's coached and most recently worked for the Pacers in scouting. He started with the team in Apr. 2012 as the manager of basketball administration and later became one of three regional scouts. Over the summer, he departed and then accepted a job with the Pistons as their director of draft scouting. We'll talk about his career path, being able to work remotely in Indy, his approach talent evaluation and the positive impact his father, Quinn Buckner, has had on his life.
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Dec 9, 2020
Hayward trade talks went nowhere and Pacers training camp opens
On this episode: I detail Gordon Hayward's desire to play at home for the Pacers and trade talks with the Celtics were doomed from the start, what the Pacers look like entering camp, Nate Bjorkgren filling out his coaching staff and renovations made to Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
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Nov 20, 2020
Draft recap, Cassius Stanley selected at 54 and the possibility of acquiring Gordon Hayward
The draft finally happened — five months later than usual and after the date was pushed back twice. I go solo on this podcast to share my thoughts on the night and the Pacers taking Cassius Stanley at 54. Then, I answer key questions on several Pacers and look ahead to free agency. There's mutual interest in Gordon Hayward playing for the Pacers, but what would it take? Take a listen...
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Nov 6, 2020
Dru Anthrop, former Pacers intern and current Lakers video coordinator
Dru Anthrop is a native of Lafayette, Indiana and he played basketball at Purdue from 2009-13. He then was a video intern with the Pacers, and after four other stops, he's now the head video coordinator for the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers — working under Frank Vogel. Anthrop discusses his two seasons with the Pacers, how hard work and a lot of luck are positively impacting his career, his time in the bubble and being part of a championship team.
Click here to review this podcast.
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Oct 26, 2020
Life inside the NBA bubble — with Pacers stats crew member Geoff Sherman
The NBA officially completed the 2019-20 season and league staffers spent more than 100 days inside the bubble at Walt Disney World. To make it all work, the NBA recruited individuals across the league. Like Pacers PA announcer Tim Sinclair, and dozens of stats crew members. One of three from Indianapolis was Geoff Sherman, who sits at the scorer's table for Pacers games. He worked 38 games over 62 days while in Florida.
Sherman discussed the commitment required, his path to working on stats crews (in 2014), "amazing" things heard during games, teaching IUPUI classes remotely and the importance of saying 'yes.'
"The one thing about the bubble is that you lost track of your life a little bit," he said. Click here to read his reflection.
Also, click here to review this podcast.
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Oct 20, 2020
A new Nate: On the Pacers hiring Nate Bjorkgren — with Raptors reporter Eric Koreen
After 55 days, the Pacers have a head coach. Kevin Pritchard led an extensive search with more than two dozen candidates. Ultimately, they decided 45-year-old Nate Bjorkgren was their man. He's coached under NBA Coach of the Year Nick Nurse the last several years and previously won a D League title. On this podcast, I share my thoughts on the hire and learn more about Bjorkgren from Raptors reporter Eric Koreen of The Athletic (11:35). Eric wrote a thorough profile on Bjorkgren in February.
Also, click here to review this podcast.
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Oct 5, 2020
NBA finishing the season, Pacers' coaching search and what Victor didn't say
On this episode, I give the NBA credit for its bubble and finishing the season, talk about the Pacers' coaching search, the names I continue to hear (and note the ones I'm not) and what stood out to me about Victor Oladipo's interview just before the NBA Finals started. Plus, notes about Bankers Life Fieldhouse renovations and the first event scheduled since the Big Ten men's basketball tournament last March.
Click here to leave a show review.
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Aug 27, 2020
Exit Interview: 1-on-1 with Nate McMillan
On Aug. 26, the Pacers officially parted ways with Nate McMillan as head coach after four seasons. It came less than 24 hours after the team returned from the NBA campus in Orlando. One day later, Nate joins the podcast to talk about the front office going in a different direction, his hope for last season, whether he has any regrets and more. (6:26)
My story on his firing: https://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/p/pacers-make-sharp-turn-move-on-from
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Aug 17, 2020
Pacers-Heat preview with AP's Tim Reynolds; surge in sports gaming with PointsBet VP Ron Shell
Six weeks after they arrived in Florida and more than four months after the NBA's stoppage, the playoffs are here. The Pacers went 6-2 in the seeding round and face the Miami Heat in Round 1. AP writer Tim Reynolds joins the show to discuss his experience in the NBA bubble, then preview these franchise's fifth time meeting in the playoffs. (10:00)
Then, I'm joined by PointsBet VP Ron Shell to talk about the sports gaming boom, their partnership with the Pacers, and a special promotion for Pacers fans. (44:15)
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Aug 10, 2020
Chris Denari on the Restart Pacers and calling games 1,000 miles away
Chris Denari is in his 14th season season as the TV play-by-play announcer for the Pacers. He's done it all in Indy — from working at FOX 59 to calling Butler and Fever games. And he remains on the IMS Radio Network. But his new reality, calling games for FOX Sports Indiana from a studio, is much different. On this podcast, we talk about the Pacers' play in the restart and all that goes into Denari calling a game off monitors rather than being courtside.
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Jul 28, 2020
Kenny Smith from 'Inside the NBA'
My guest on this episode is Kenny "The Jet" Smith. He played at UNC from 1983-87, was drafted by the Sacramento Kings, spent 10 seasons in the NBA and won two championships with the Houston Rockets (1994, 1995). And now he's seen weekly during the NBA season on "Inside the NBA" with EJ, Charles and Shaq.
He's recently launched The Jet Academy to help train basketball players from anywhere — and he enlisted Victor Oladipo to teach young players this week. We talked about how he got into broadcasting, Oladipo presenting inside The Bubble, the Pacers' potential this season and the job coach Nate McMillan has done.
See more of what he's doing at thejetacademy.com and use code BIGSHAQ at sign-up to save $35.
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Jul 21, 2020
Keith Smith details what Disney's campus has to offer NBA teams
NBA teams began arriving to Disney's campus — in Lake Buena Vista, Florida — on July 7th. The Pacers checked in on July 9th, so they've been in The Bubble for almost two weeks. Nate McMillan said it had a college feel; others, like T.J. Warren, said it felt more like AAU. Keith Smith, who worked there for nearly 20 years, came on the show to explain why it was the ideal location for the NBA's restart and all the amenities available to players.
» FieldhouseFiles.com is the new home for my stories. Log on, sign up with your email and follow along for complete coverage of the Pacers.
Keith's story from April 16th: Why Walt Disney World would be the ideal spot for the NBA to salvage its season.
Follow Keith on Twitter: @KeithSmithNBA.
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Jul 13, 2020
Pacers PA voice Tim Sinclair prepares to enter The Bubble
The Pacers arrived in Orlando for the NBA's restart on Thursday and over the weekend, another familiar name made his way down there. Tim Sinclair, the voice you hear inside Bankers Life Fieldhouse for home games, was selected by the NBA to be one of four public address announcers for games. Before the trip, we discussed his decision to go inside the bubble (and away from family), how long he’ll be there, what he packed and what it may be like to do his job without fans.
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Jul 9, 2020
"Knowledge of Self" with former Pacer C.J. Miles
C.J. Miles signed with the Pacers in 2014 and spent three seasons in Indy. While his time was relatively short, his impact and wisdom shared was sizable. This podcast was recorded on June 4th — exactly one month before the birth of his second daughter, Nadia Rhea Miles.
We opened with a deep conversation about what's on his heart; what it will be like to explain this time to his daughters (9:30); how he had no intention of going straight to the NBA from high school until the day of the 2005 draft (15:44); how the Spurs drafted his close friend Ian Mahinmi over him, a Dallas product (18:00); whether he has always been a comfortable, confident man (20:20); the pressure of being in a contract year (22:00); signing with the Pacers and Larry Bird eating potato chips before dinner (26:15); Lance Stephenson (29:15); Being traded to the Wizards and getting hurt (33:30); George Hill’s ranch (38:35); appearance by Ava, his first daughter (43:40); selflessly playing power forward (44:20); h…
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Jul 2, 2020
I'm back
The show is back. I know it's been nearly a month since my last episode ... but there's a reason. Pacers players have all made their way back to town, are tested every other day and will fly down to Disney's Wide World of Sports in one week.
On this episode, I'll explain why I've been off the grid for a few weeks, how I'm still considering my next move ... and I'll touch on key points surrounding the NBA's restart.
Follow
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Jun 4, 2020
Stephen Holder on Covering the NFL and NBA and His Path to Becoming a Journalist
Current Colts beat reporter for The Athletic Stephen Holder joins Scott to talk about his time covering the NFL and NBA, as well as the many interesting jobs he had on his path to becoming a sports journalist.
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May 27, 2020
Where the Pacers Fit into the Myriad Potential NBA Return Scenarios with Dave DuFour
Scott Agness and Dave DuFour discuss the many scenarios that have been put forward for the structuring of the return of the NBA, and how the Pacers figure into them.
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May 21, 2020
A Conversation with Former Pacers Team Performance Psychologist Dr. Chris Carr
Scott is joined by former Pacers Team Performance Psychologist and current Director of Performance Psychology & Team Behavioral Health Clinician of the Green Bay Packers Dr. Chris Carr to talk about the work that he does with sports teams.
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May 18, 2020
Special Interview with Pacers Fan From 'The Last Dance' Kathy Martin Harrison
Scott Agness is joined by the Pacers fan, whose image has become the latest viral meme from episode nine of 'The Last Dance', to talk about what it is to become a meme in a sports-less world and what it was like to be a fan at those Pacers games of old.
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May 14, 2020
Revisiting the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals with Bob Kravitz
Bob Kravitz joins Scott Agness to talk about the strategies for bringing the NBA back that have been floating around and to revisit the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals between the Bulls and Pacers.
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May 5, 2020
One-on-one with Pacers head coach Nate McMillan: coaching in quarantine, his path to basketball and more
Scott is joined by Indiana Pacers head coach Nate McMillan for an exclusive interview. Coach McMillan discusses how he as a coach is working and coaching during quarantine. Then coach dives into his background: how fear of failure nearly ended his basketball career before it began and playing against the Jordan era Bulls.
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Apr 23, 2020
How the Indiana Pacers and NBA Could Get Back to Basketball
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Mike Smeltz to discuss what exactly basketball may look when/if it comes back this season, how the TV product could be drastically different and how the Pacers are spending their time off-the-court. Plus - what lessons the NBA may learn from the NFL Draft.
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Apr 14, 2020
Jeff Foster 1-on-1 and Pacers Update from GM Kevin Pritchard
Scott first delivers major takeaways from a conference call with Indiana Pacers' GM Kevin Pritchard. Then (4:00) Scott is joined by former longtime Pacer Jeff Foster to update on Foster's life right now, a look back from his 13 seasons with the Pacers and some what-if scenarios over that time. At (30:18) we have the full Kevin Pritchard conference call with reporters today.
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Apr 9, 2020
Pacers Expectations: Who Exceeded and Who Underwhelmed
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to look back at a month ago the crazy few days that shutdown the NBA. Plus a review of the Pacers this season: which Pacer exceeded expectations and which underperformed.
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Apr 2, 2020
Indiana Sports Hall of Fame Debate with Bob Kravitz
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to dive into which sports figures should be in Indiana's Sports Hall of Fame, as laid out in a project here at The Athletic.
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Mar 25, 2020
The Tayshaun Prince Block Game and Lavoy Allen Interview
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Detroit Pistons reporter James Edwards III to jump into the time machine to take another look at Pistons-Pacers Game 2 2004 NBA Eastern Conference Finals aka the Tayshaun Prince Block game. Then at (27:00) Scott is joined by former Pacer Lavoy Allen for some much needed levity.
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Mar 16, 2020
The Impact of Pro Sports Suspension
In a special episode - Scott takes a look at the impact of the sportsworld-wide suspension of play. First, Scott is joined by the Indiana Pacers PA announcer Tim Sinclair to talk about how contract workers with the team, like himself, are handling the suspension. And then Scott is joined by IUPUI women's basketball coach Austin Parkinson on a dream season cut short.
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Mar 10, 2020
Diving Deep on Indiana Pacers Injuries with Jeff Stotts
Scott is joined by Jeff Stotts, founder of InStreetClothes.com, to run through all the key details to know about each and every injured Indiana Pacers
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Mar 6, 2020
Lessons from Bucks-Pacers with Eric Nehm
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks reporter Eric Nehm to talk about the Bucks-Pacers game, how the Bucks have avoided drama this year, the creation of their defense and more.
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Feb 25, 2020
State of the Pacers without Lamb, waiting on Oladipo
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk about how the Pacers will have to adapt to Jeremy Lamb being done for the year, plus answering listener questions from twitter.
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Feb 17, 2020
All-Star Weekend Interviews with Myles Turner, Tamika Catchings and More
Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness takes listeners inside All-Star weekend in Chicago with a series of interviews including with Pacers center Myles Turner, Basketball Hall of Fame finalist Tamika Catchings, Pacers VP of Marketing Todd Taylor and Tautvydas Sabonis, brother of Pacers All-Star Domantas Sabonis
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Feb 13, 2020
An Analytics Look at the Pacers with Seth Partnow
Scott is joined by Seth Partnow, former Milwaukee Bucks Director of Basketball Research and current basketball analyst for The Athletic, to take a look at what the numbers say about the Indiana Pacers as the NBA heads into the All-Star break.
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Feb 10, 2020
Homecoming: An Interview with Pat Knight on his father's return to IU
Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness talks with Pacers pro scout Pat Knight, son of Bob Knight. Pat reveals the behind-the-scenes story that led to Bob Knight's emotional return to Indiana this past weekend.
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Jan 30, 2020
Biggest Observations from Victor Oladipo's Return
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to go through the biggest observations from Victor Oladipo's long-awaited return to the Indiana Pacers. How Oladipo looked, that big shot, his impact on the team, and what has to be done going forward to get Oladipo back to speed.
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Jan 29, 2020
Victor Oladipo Returns!
Special episode of Fieldhouse Files ahead of Victor Oladipo's return to the Indiana Pacers' lineup. Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to talk about expectations for Oladipo and the Pacers. Then hear from Oladipo himself, plus coach Nate McMillan on how the team will integrate the Pacers' star back into the lineup.
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Jan 22, 2020
Pacers All-Stars and Trade Deadline Buzz
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk over whether Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon are worthy of being All-Stars. Then trade deadline buzz: will the Pacers make a deal, for who if so, and which Eastern Conference rivals may go all-in on the trade market.
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Jan 17, 2020
Pacers Midseason Report with Eddie Gill
Scott is joined by Fox Sports Indiana Pacers TV Analyst Eddie Gill to review the Pacers at the midway point in the season. Also discussed Gill's extensive overseas basketball career and what it is like being the dad of two kids who are having successful HS/college careers
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Jan 14, 2020
30 Games in 30 Nights
Scott is joined by David DeLooper, who just visited Indy as part of his goal to see 30 NBA games in 30 nights in 30 different cities. David goes into what is driving him to do this basketball marathon, the key to getting on the jumbotron, and his thoughts on the experience inside NBA arenas
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Jan 9, 2020
Oladipo sets return date, Shams Charania joins to break it down
Special episode of Fieldhouse Files: Victor Oladipo's return date is officially set, January 29th against the Bulls. That news was broken by the Athletic's Shams Charania. Shams joined Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness to talk about his interview with Victor, and what to expect from the Pacers' star. Then (13:00) You'll hear in full a press conference Victor held where he explained why this month is the right time to return.
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Jan 3, 2020
Indiana Pacers Mailbag with Dave DuFour
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to dig into the mailbag to answer listener and Athletic subscriber questions all about the Pacers, including exactly what to expect to Victor Oladipo when he returns to the team and what role will he play.
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Dec 23, 2019
12 Big Questions Facing the Pacers
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Mike Smeltz to run through 12 big questions facing the Pacers this season: when Victor Oladipo may come back, what will he look like, biggest surprises, biggest concerns, and much much more.
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Dec 18, 2019
Pacers Ain't Going Nowhere
Scott Agness and Dave DuFour on the Pacers phenomenal week, beating the Celtics and the Lakers. The unique defensive scheme the Pacers have installed. What is contributing to the team's early season success without Victor Oladipo. And a new update on Oladipo's possible return.
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Dec 10, 2019
So What Paul George Said...
Scott is joined by Dave DuFour to talk about Paul George's 'I'm not the one to boo,' comment in his return to Indianapolis. Scott adds some context to those comments, how truthful they are and who George may be alluding to
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Dec 4, 2019
20 Game Check-In: What We've Learned About the Pacers
Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness is joined by Dave DuFour to pull back and look at what we've learned about the Pacers 20 games into the season. The improvement Domantas Sabonis has made, the surprising production of Malcolm Brogdon, and INJURIES
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Nov 25, 2019
The 2010s: Indiana Pacers All Decade Team with Bob Kravitz
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Bob Kravitz to run through the Indiana Pacers All-Decade team of the 2010s.
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Nov 22, 2019
Update on Victor Oladipo
Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness runs through some key statistics about the Pacers early on in this season, (9:00) takes listeners inside the big City Edition jersey reveal at Indy Motor Speedway, then (16:00) updates on key injury situations including sound from Victor Oladipo.
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Nov 16, 2019
The Thing About Thingamajig
Special crossover episode as Scott joined The Athletic's daily news podcast - The Lead - where Scott examines how Thingamajig from The Masked Singer is most likely the Pacers' Victor Oladipo.
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Nov 14, 2019
Malcolm in the Middle
Scott is joined by The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks reporter Eric Nehm to talk all about Malcolm Brogdon: his time in Milwaukee, how it came to an end, how he became a Pacer, and the impact of the deal on both teams this season. Plus at 35:30 Scott has a quick 1-on-1 interview with Malcolm Brogdon about his upcoming matchup against the Bucks this Saturday.
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Nov 4, 2019
The Unhealthy Pacers
Scott Agness and Dave DuFour assess the Pacers after a 0-3 start, followed up a 3 game winning streak. Injuries are piling up, what the team is going to do to replace that production.
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Oct 31, 2019
The Pacers Bounce Back in Brooklyn
In Brooklyn after the Pacers’ first win of the season, Scott catches up with Michael Grady, the Brooklyn Nets sideline reporter for YES Network. The Indy native discusses covering the Nets with two superstars, what he’s seen from the Pacers and how he misses hosting a sports talk show in his hometown.
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Oct 21, 2019
Emergency Pod! Domas Sabonis Extension
Emergency episode of the Fieldhouse Files as Domas Sabonis signs a 4 year extension with the Indiana Pacers. Fieldhouse Files host and The Athletic's Pacers reporter Scott Agness is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to break down what the deal means for the Pacers going forward.
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Oct 21, 2019
Pacers Expectations and Projections
Fieldhouse Files host Scott Agness, Indiana Pacers reporter for The Athletic, is joined by The Athletic's Dave DuFour to talk who needs to excel for the Pacers to excel and all the Victor Oladipo scenarios
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Oct 20, 2019
Trailer for Fieldhouse Files
Welcome to Fieldhouse Files, a podcast all about the Indiana Pacers hosted by The Athletic's Pacers reporter Scott Agness.
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May 3, 2019
Ep. 95: Pacers season review with Bob Kravitz
The Pacers’ season ended in disappointing fashion, a 4-0 sweep to the Celtics in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. Ten days after their final game of the season, president Kevin Pritchard and head coach Nate McMillan met with the media to discuss their year, mostly without star Victor Oladipo, and what sets up to be a very busy and fascinating offseason.
To discuss all of that, Bob Kravitz of The Athletic Indiana joins the podcast.
Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Takeaways from Pritchard and McMillan’s comments
* Whether they afford to re-sign Bojan Bogdanovic
* How they go about building the roster with just six players under contract
* Positions needing addressed and possible targets in free agency
* Thad Young’s future
* Can Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis work in tandem
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Apr 17, 2019
Ep. 94: Game 1 breakdown with Jared Weiss
BOSTON — The Pacers dropped Game 1 in Boston, 84-74. The third quarter, in which they missed 17 of 19 shots and scored only eight points, was their worst single quarter in franchise playoff history. They managed just 29 points in the second half – a total of 24 minutes. Not good.
So that’s what a I wrote about after Game 1.
Jared Weiss covers the Celtics for The Athletic in Boston. He joined me to discuss Game 1 and to look ahead to the rest of the series.
Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Bojan Bogdanovic’s development and what the Pacers need from him
* What one Pacer must step up for them to be successful
* Evaluating the Pacers’ bigs
* Why Jared believes Al Horford is the best player in the series
* Cory Jospeh’s success against Boston
* Jaylen Brown’s trash-talking
* Wesley Matthews defending Kyrie
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Apr 13, 2019
Ep. 93: Previewing Pacers-Celtics with Bob Kravitz
The Pacers Podcast is back, right in time for the 2019 NBA postseason. They finished the season with a record identical to last season, 48-34, and they did it despite two-time All-Star Victor Oladipo only appearing in 36 games.
So, the Pacers are the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference and are matched up against No. 4 Boston (49-33). It is their first time meeting in the playoffs since 2005.
To preview the series, my colleague at The Athletic, Bob Kravitz, joined me for this episode — which was recorded on Friday after practice.
I will be with the Pacers on the road in Boston (and throughout the playoffs) for coverage on TheAthletic.com.
Subscribe to The Athletic here — and to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* The Celtics losing Marcus Smart for the series
* Who Bob believes are the two most important players in the series
* The significance (or not) of home-court advantage for B…
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Oct 26, 2018
Ep. 92: David Alexander – Victor Oladipo’s sports performance trainer
Before Victor Oladipo was traded during the 2017 offseason, he was already two months into his offseason program.
And for the first time, he completed it down in Miami at DBC Fitness with David Alexander. On the suggestion from Dwyane Wade, Oladipo worked out five days a week with the sports performance trainer who trains dozens of elite athletes, including Wade.
“Nothing we do is standard,” Alexander explained on the podcast. “We’ve done a great job of looking at what the industry is doing and kind of going the opposite way.
“You got to get comfortable being uncomfortable.”
Initially, sweeping changes were made to Oladipo’s nutrition — which led to this side-by-side photo after just three weeks.
“The number one thing was dialing into his nutrition,” Alexander says, “eliminating all flour, refined sugars, gluten – things that we knew would inflame his body. When he came in – I’ve probably said it a million times – he was very inflamed upon his first day en…
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Oct 22, 2018
Ep. 91: Myles Turner signs extension; summer yoga with Bridget Gibbs
Myles Turner spent the majority of the offseason down in Texas. It was home, away from distractions, and allowed for him to focus on himself. He was preparing for the final year of his rookie deal — and later reached agreement with the Pacers on a four-year extension that guaranteed him $72 million.
But before then, one of the things he gave his full attention to during those hot summer days in Texas was yoga. At least twice a week, Turner would drive to The Ranch for a private session with Bridget Gibbs, owner of Yoga Body Fort Worth.
This was all part of his plan to improve his mind, diet, and strength. Initially, he wasn’t feeling the yoga. However, he soon felt the benefits as they began with trapeze yoga.
“I focus on trying to get you out of your head, get you out of your own way and let you be in your mat and teach you how to breath and teach you how to press through the pain, and to take your mind somewhere else,” Gibbs said. “Yoga is not necessarily an exercise; it’…
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Oct 11, 2018
Ep. 90: Behind the scenes of Gordon Hayward’s last year – with skills trainer Jason Smeathers
Gordon Hayward’s last year has not been easy. Next Tuesday, Oct. 17, is the one-year anniversary of his unlucky fall in Cleveland that resulted in a broken left tibia and dislocated ankle.
Jason Smeathers is Hayward’s friend and skills trainer, and has been with him for most of the last year. In Boston. In Miami. In Indianapolis. In San Diego.
Smeathers picked Hayward up for workouts each day, put him through on-court workouts and served as part-time motivator and full-time friend.
As part of “The Return” documentary published on The Athletic, I sat down with Smeathers to take you inside their work over the last year, the days where they just weren’t feeling it to the little things that kept them motivated.
“Another one down. Great job. We’ll go back after it tomorrow,” Smeathers would often repeat to Hayward.
They chose to focus on daily improvement rather than working with the big picture in mind. Improve every day became a motto for Hayward, who is 28 and in the se…
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Sep 24, 2018
Ep. 89: Cody Parrent on Year 1 of Pacers Gaming
Now that the first season of the NBA 2K League is complete, it’s a good time to take a look back at the year for Pacers Gaming. They went 5-9 and finish 13th in a 17-team league that will expand to 21 teams for Year 2.
I recently visited the headquarters of Pacers Gaming, the fourth franchise for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Like the Pacers, they work out of the St. Vincent Center – just off Delaware Street in downtown Indianapolis. It is a gorgeous $50 million facility, entirely privately financed, that has been open for just over a year.
Pacers Gaming has an outstanding office featuring a great work environment with a dozen computers along with a play area that includes a ping pong table.
The league played a 14-week regular season from May through August, plus three tournament. Pacers Gaming just missed out on the playoffs so their season ended on August 11. Teams consist of six players and for this group, it was the first time that 67 percent of the players on the roster playe…
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Sep 17, 2018
Ep. 88: New Job Alert
It’s time for another Pacers Podcast!
On this podcast, I’ll discuss my new job. Yeah … you read that correctly. You may know about it by now — and surely you have since I no longer write about the Pacers here on VigilantSports.com — but last month I officially joined The Athletic as their Pacers writer. The Athletic is the home of outstanding journalism where they prioritize the reader and the story — and don’t bother you with ads, pop-ups, meaningless video, and other things that upset readers.
I’m fired up to be part of a wonderful team.
The Pacers, meanwhile, have plenty of reasons to be excited for the new season. They open training camp in one week and then will tip-off the 2018-19 season at home in exactly one month against the Memphis Grizzlies. They have four preseason games but none at home (rejoice!), so you’re only chance to see this team before opening night will be at FanJam on Sept. 30 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm.
Players are returning to Indy this week. It…
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Aug 5, 2018
Ep. 87: Coach David Grace on the Indiana Bruins
You might as well refer to the Pacers as the Indiana Bruins. Especially so in future years when former Bruins players Aaron Holiday, T.J. Leaf, and Ike Anigobgu take on larger roles on the team.
For now, they’re two 21-year-olds and a 19-year-old with goals to be in the NBA for the next decade.
Coach David Grace is one of the key individuals behind the scenes that helped land those three at UCLA, playing under head coach Steve Alford. (He also took the lead in the recruitment of 2017 Indiana Mr. Basketball North Central High School product Kris Wilkes playing at UCLA.)
Grace was at UCLA for five seasons and then took a job at Cal in mid-April.
Grace grew up in Maryland and the spent 20 years in the military. Since, he’s been out west coaching basketball – with stops at Sacramento State, San Francisco, Oregon, State, and UCLA before Cal.
On this podcast, I talk with Grace about those Bruins, from recruiting them to UCLA and what they need to do to take their games to another…
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Jul 31, 2018
Ep. 86: Joe Young is headed to China
Joe Young, the Pacers’ second-round pick in 2015, has found a new team. The 26-year-old guard has agreed to a one-year deal with the Nanjing Tongxi Monkey King of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), Young told VigilantSports.com.
“Got things finalized and just truly honored about this opportunity,” Young said.
“Great team, great coach. I heard a lot of great things about the organization. Me and my team came together and decided what was best for me at this particularly time. … I know it’s a different pace. At the end of the day, basketball is basketball and I just have to adjust to it.”
Another former Pacer, Al Jefferson, will be playing in the same league. After the Pacers waived the veteran center in early July, he weighed his options, including returning to the Pacers, but decided to sign with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers. Young said he spoke to his former locker neighbor before making his decision.
“I had a great conversation with Al. He basically gave me go…
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Jul 17, 2018
Ep. 85: Damjan Rudež on Croatia reaching the World Cup Final
What was the feeling in Croatia when they played in the FIFA World Cup Final over the weekend? I had to find out.
On this episode of the Pacers Podcast, I called up former Pacer forward Damjan Rudež, a native of Zagreb, Croatia. While he’s not a huge soccer fan, the monthlong run by Croatia, with a population just over 4.1 million people, was special and impactful for the professional basketball player.
France ultimately won, 4-2.
Rudež, who’s 32 years old, has represented his country several times in international competition, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a FIBA World Cup. But this was different. This was memorable — and he explains why.
“This is more than I’ve ever felt proud in my life. I swear. I can’t even tell you. It’s the state of catharsis and exhilaration.”
He was a little excited, can’t you tell?
FINALE!!!!!!!!!!! 🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷…
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Jun 20, 2018
Ryan Carr on the Pacers’ draft prep, pick 23, and valuing fit
Final preparations are underway at the St. Vincent Center in downtown Indianapolis as a dozen or so in player evaluation push to gather additional intel on players and who teams ahead of the Pacers may draft.
After going 48-34 and losing a four-way tiebreaker to decide the draft order, the Pacers will select 23rd and 50th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, which will be held Thursday evening at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. ESPN will again be televising the two-round draft, which will begin after 7:00 pm ET.
The Pacers visited with players at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, the NBA Global Camp in Treviso, Italy, and 29 draft hopefuls who came to Indianapolis for a workout.
The pre-draft workouts are less about the workout and primarily about three things: 1) Getting to know them better, especially in an off-court setting over lunch, 2) Medical evaluation, 3) Building a relationship.
Victor Oladipo is the star of the team, named to the All-Defensive First Team and Third Team All-NBA la…
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May 25, 2018
Ep. 83: IMS President Doug Boles
Pacers All-Star Victor Oladipo will drive the 2019 Chevrolet pace car to start Sunday’s Indianapolis 500. He’s the first active Indianapolis athlete and just the third non-racing athlete to be given that honor.
Oladipo is arriving in Indianapolis on Friday and will get his first chance behind the ZR1 Pace Car. Chevrolet flew in Ron Fellows from Las Vegas to trainer Oladipo ahead of Sunday.
On this podcast, I sit down with Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles to discuss Oladipo’s involvement in the largest one-day sporting event in the world.
“One of our biggest challenges every year is who should drive the pace car,” Boles explained. “You want somebody who makes a statement, somebody that people recognize, and we started thinking through it. And for what Victor Oladipo did with the team, really what the entire team did and the way they represented the city of Indianapolis around the country, we thought here’s a guy that’s local, but on a national stage.
“H…
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Apr 14, 2018
Ep. 82: Dave McMenamin previews Pacers-Cavaliers
Dave McMenamin is on the Cleveland Cavaliers beat, covering all things LeBron James and the Cavs for ESPN.
The Pacers’ first-round series begins in Cleveland where they’ll try to beat LeBron James in the playoffs for the first time. He’s ended their postseason run in five of the last seven years.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are pushing the underdog role, which suits them. Nobody picked them to have a successful season and here they are in the playoffs, in the 4 vs 5 matchup.
“Everyone is watching,” Lance Stephenson said. “We’re all up for this (series). It’s going to be challenging, it’s going to be hard, but I think we’re set for it.”
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Drama, mid-season changes, and JR Smith throwing soup at a coach
* LeBron and Lance
* The Pacers embracing being the underdogs
* Both teams excelling in late-game situations
* Nate McMillan…
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Apr 9, 2018
Ep. 81: Anthony Slater on The Athletic, covering the Warriors
When there is something going on with the Golden State Warriors, Anthony Slater is one of the best sources for information and context.
He’s in his fifth season covering the NBA and his second on the Warriors beat. His first three seasons, beginning in 2013, were in Oklahoma City documenting Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and all things Thunder.
This season, he’s doing it on a new, rising platform: The Athletic.
It’s a subscription sports outlet and the Bay Area has been wildly successful. It helps that the Warriors are the talk of the NBA, featured four All-Stars and a likable coach, have faced the Cleveland Cavaliers in the last three NBA Finals, and the website signed the authoritative Warriors writers, Slater and longtime beat reporter Marcus Thompson.
Slater is also consistent. After each game, you can expect: 1) postgame video interviews on Twitter, 2) a Stock Report video, 3) a thorough Five Observations piece, and 4) an All-82 podcast.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast…
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Apr 2, 2018
Ep. 80: Chris Denari
The Pacers are 46-31, a season-best 15 games over .500 with five to play. They’re flirting with their second 50-win season since 2004 and have spent all season flying under the radar.
Because of that, they have appeared on national TV just once — and that was for Paul George’s return. So Chris Denari and the entire FOX Sports Indiana crew has had the honor of providing the visuals for every game this season.
Out west on a 10-day road trip, I recorded this podcast with Denari before he joined the team in a ballroom at the hotel to watch the NCAA Championship game between Michigan and Villanova. In his 12th year as the TV Voice of the Pacers, he has been with them every step of the way and offers a unique perspective.
Practice winding down in Denver. #Pacers and Nuggets tomorrow night on @FSIndiana. Pre-game starts at 8:30. @Pacers look for season-high 6th straight win and a 4-0 road trip. pic.twitter.com/S5E54Duxei— Chris Denari (@ChrisDenari) April 2, 2018
Subscribe to the Pac…
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Mar 25, 2018
Ep. 79: Mark Montieth after the Pacers clinched a playoff spot
The Pacers secured a playoff spot Sunday in Game 74 of the season. They beat the Miami Heat 113-107 getting contributions across the roster. It was a microcosm for their entire season.
In the media room hours after the Pacers’ 43rd win of the season, surpassing last year’s total (42-40), Mark Montieth joined me to record this podcast.
You can read Mark’s work at Pacers.com, MarkMontieth.com, and look into his book, “Reborn,” on the early days of pro basketball in Indiana. (Click here to listen to our podcast about it.)
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Clinching a playoff spot
* The players thriving off the doubt from outside the locker room
* Domantas Sabonis unlucky in re-injuring his ankle
* Darren Collison’s undervalued contributions
* Final portion of their schedule with six of eight games on the road
[Photo: Frank McGrath/PS&E]
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Mar 18, 2018
Ep. 78: Get to know Trevor Booker
Seeking depth at power forward, the Pacers added veteran free agent Trevor Booker to their roster officially on March 3.
After the Pacers concluded a four-game road trip, Booker watched the team beat Milwaukee on the second night of a back-to-back before practicing with the guys for the first time.
“He’s first and foremost a great guy,” said Bojan Bogdanovic, a teammate of Booker’s last season in Brooklyn.
“He’s the guy that we’ve missed that can fit perfectly in our system. We are switching a lot with the three and four so he’s also able to guard all of these quick guards. I think it’s a great addition for us. He’s a great defender, a great rebounder. He can be huge for us and I think he will.”
Booker has averaged 6.9 points and 5.5 rebounds per game in eight seasons as a pro.
The 30-year-old, 6-foot-8 power forward who will provide toughness and rebounding inside, then made his debut in a Pacers uniform on March 7th against the Utah Jazz, a team he played for f…
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Mar 8, 2018
Ep. 77: David Benner, Director of Media Relations
David Benner is in his 24th season as the Director of Media Relations for the Indiana Pacers. He’s the primary contact between the media and the team.
Benner, however, has been both sides. He spent 16 years as a writer for the Indianapolis Star, including eight years covering the Pacers. He moved over to his present role with the team in 1994, replacing Dale Ratermann. That transition included many changes for David, like an upgrade in his wardrobe.
He got his start working in sports as a manager for the Center Grove High School boys basketball team while a sophomore. “I’ve kind of been involved in sports ever since that,” he says.
Benner and his PR staff — that includes Krissy Myers and Wes Kaminski — twice (2010-11, 2012-13) has been the recipient of the annual Brian McIntyre Media Relations Award for consistently going above and beyond the call of duty to work cooperatively with the local and national media.
On this podcast, you’ll get to know Benner, one of the many f…
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Mar 1, 2018
Ep. 76: Slick Leonard
It will be eight weeks on Friday, March 2 since Slick Leonard, alone in his church’s parking lot, slipped on ice when unloading boxes to recycle. He forgot to put his car in park, slipped, and shattered the trochanter in one of his hips and says the pain has been “a monster.”
Slick was admitted to a central Indiana hospital and placed in room 529, the same number of wins he has as Pacers head coach.
“I don’t think anybody wants to be locked up [inside] like this. I think in my lifetime, I can’t ever remember being laid up this long.”
The Hall of Famer isn’t exactly sure when he’ll be back but he does feel better each day as the pain decreases. He has been extra cautious, though, since going into cardiac arrest on the Pacers bus at Madison Square Garden back in March, 2011. Since that time, he has not traveled to road games for radio broadcasts.
Leonard, in his 32nd season as the radio analyst on the Pacers Radio Network, looks forward to rejoining Mark Boyle, who he…
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Feb 27, 2018
Ep. 75: Pacers game emcee Kurt Streblow
Kurt Streblow is in his fifth season as an emcee for Pacers home games at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. This past week, he was invited to emcee several events at All-Star Weekend 2018 held in Los Angeles.
Streblow credits Pacers Vice President of Game Operations Dean Heaviland for not only hiring him years ago, but for also recommending him to the league to be one of several emcees across the 30-team league to contribute at the NBA’s featured annual event.
On Friday, he worked the Rising Stars practice that included Pacers center Domantas Sabonis. The next day, he hosted the Special Olympics Unified game and then later All-Star practice. In all, he spent six days in Los Angeles.
Remember, Indianapolis will host All-Star Weekend in 2021.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
View this post on Instagram Interviewing the @pacers Rising Star, Domantas Sabonis! #nba #indianapacers #nba…
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Feb 11, 2018
Kevin Pritchard on the trade deadline, state of the Pacers, and future flexibility
Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard spoke with the media for more than 25 minutes Sunday afternoon before they hosted the New York Knicks.
Among the items discussed:
* Many players urging the front office to keep this group intact
* How they had three legitimate trade offers at the deadline
* Victor Oladipo exceeding all expectations
* Domantas Sabonis’ development
* Glenn Robinson III’s rehab and timeline to return
* High value of first-round picks
If you prefer to simply listen to Pritchard, you can do so below:
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Feb 2, 2018
Ep. 74: Edmond Sumner
Edmond Sumner’s rookie season has been anything but typical for a first-year player in professional basketball. He suffered a torn ACL last year while at Xavier University, so most of 2017 was spent rehabbing and getting through the mental challenges of being away from the game he loves.
The Pacers acquired a second second-round pick on draft night and used the pick from New Orleans to select Sumner 52nd overall. Because of the injury, he was still around then.
Sumner became the first player in Pacers franchise history to be signed to a two-way contract, which allows him to be part of the Pacers and Mad Ants of the G League — and it prevents another NBA club from signing them to their roster like can be done for G League contracts.
Sumner returned to game action two weeks ago and has appeared in five games, though he is limited to about 15 minutes per game. He is averaging 6.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting nearly 42 percent from the field.
See Also:…
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Jan 24, 2018
Victor Oladipo reacts to being named an NBA All-Star
Victor Oladipo’s phone buzzed Tuesday. It was Pacers President Kevin Pritchard, the executive who orchestrated the move that brought Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis to Indy last summer.
He had the honor of alerting Oladipo that he was voted an All-Star reserve by NBA head coaches.
For the first time in his five years as a pro, he would participate in the game showcasing the world’s best basketball players.
“Fitting that he would call me first,” Oladipo said Wednesday morning. “It’s awesome. It was a great moment for me. It was just special, just hearing from him and hearing his words and everything like that was a special moment – something I’ll never forget.”
See Also: Oladipo’s teammates react to his All-Star selection
Watch his full comments below:
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Jan 15, 2018
Ep. 73: Damien Wilkins
Damien Wilkins was released by the Pacers one week ago, just before his contract became guaranteed for the rest of the season. What he did, earning a roster spot, and the impact he was able to have with the Pacers in a little more than four months was special.
Here’s a sample from starting center Myles Turner on Wilkins no longer being on the team:
[sigh] “… That one hit me home a little bit. For him, it wasn’t like a surprise or a low blow, so I respect that from the organization, but as far as me and him – he just talked to me all year. He’s seen this game a lot over the past years. He just wants me to be the best version of myself I can be. A lot of that is just the mental aspect of it and that’s one thing he helped with me a lot.”
Wilkins turned 38 years old last Thursday, and more than half of the team made it to a surprise celebration.
His story is a good one, returning to the NBA for the first time since 2013 after stops in Beijing, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and th…
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Jan 7, 2018
Damien Wilkins proud of his time and impact with the Pacers
Damien Wilkins knew his fate by 2:00 pm on Saturday, five hours before the Pacers faced the Chicago Bulls at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
What he didn’t know was that he would start in his final game with the team.
Bojan Bogdanovic was a late scratch due to a sprained left ankle and head coach Nate McMillan wanted Lance Stephenson to resume playing with the second unit again after he had started in place of an injured Victor Oladipo the past four games.
So Wilkins not only played in his final game with the Pacers, but he also started. It was his first start since 2013 — with the Philadelphia 76ers, in Indianapolis of all places.
Wilkins met with President Kevin Pritchard and General Manager Chad Buchanan after practice on Sunday. Then, after more than an hour, he met with reporters before taking the elevator down to the first floor of the St. Vincent Center and walking to his car.
“I knew yesterday what was happening so it was long day yesterday, as you can imagine, to find out that…
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Jan 2, 2018
Ep. 72: Jason Lloyd
Jason Lloyd is one of three beat reporters covering the Cleveland Cavaliers each day. Wherever they are, he is there as well writing the story of the day or an in-depth feature.
The Cavaliers, of course, are home to LeBron James, the best athlete in the world — meaning whatever James says will make headlines and be heavily consumed across a variety of platforms. After the Cavaliers’ 2016 NBA Title, coming back from a 3-1 deficit, Lloyd was compelled to write a book on the title and what it took to make it happen – The Blueprint: LeBron James, Cleveland’s Deliverance, and the Making of the Modern NBA.
This past offseason, Lloyd made a move of his own from a traditional media outlet (Akron Beacon Journal) to a hot startup (The Athletic).
On this podcast, Lloyd talked about his experience covering James and the Cavaliers, and his process to write the book.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via em…
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Dec 13, 2017
Rick Fuson proud that Indy will host the NBA All-Star Game once again — in 2021
Hosting a second NBA All-Star game has been years in the making for city and Indiana Pacers officials alike.
They’ve sent many representatives to the last several All-Star Weekends, Toronto in 2016 and New Orleans in 2017. With the support of owner Herb Simon, the city submitted its bid in style — Larry Bird rode an IndyCar in New York City — back in April.
The announcement that Indianapolis will host the 2021 NBA All-Star Game was made official at a Wednesday afternoon press conference held at Bankers Life Fieldhouse with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, and team executives.
“We can’t be more excited about it,” said Rick Fuson, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, told VigilantSports.com. “We’ve been talking to Herb about this for over two years. The bid process took almost a year, then we went to the NBA and turned our bid in in April.
“It’s just a great day. To be…
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Dec 13, 2017
Paul George discusses his return to Indianapolis
Paul George is back in Indianapolis and tonight will sit on the opposing bench for the first time. The Pacers (16-11), winners of four in a row, host the 12-14 Oklahoma City Thunder, who have yet to hit their stride this season.
This will be George’s first game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse since informing Pacers officials that he would not be back for the 2018-19 season. He has that ability because he negotiated to have a player option in his contract that he signed back in 2013.
Wednesday’s game will be televised nationally on ESPN.
VIDEO: Pacers coach Nate McMillan, player discuss facing Paul George
After morning shootaround, George spoke to reporters for five minutes. Watch his full comments below:
Transcript:
What was it like to walk in here?
It was great, good memories here.
Was it bizarre visiting the visiting locker room for a change here?
I didn’t know [know where it was]. Honestly I didn’t. This was a different feel but it’s just thinking about tonight.
You’ve go…
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Dec 2, 2017
Ep. 70: Scot Pollard
Scot Pollard played in the NBA for five teams over 11 seasons, spanning 1997 through 2008. In his final season, he won a NBA championship with the Boston Celtics.
Pollard, 42, lives in Indianapolis and has had no trouble filling the void that is left after basketball. He has dabbled in comedy and will soon launch his own podcast, Planet Pollard.
We cover it all in this hour-long conversation. I think you’ll really enjoy hearing from the always entertaining Pollard. He does not disappoint.
[Pollard previously appeared on the podcast to discuss his experience on CBS’ Survivor]
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* How he’s staying busy after basketball
* Getting involved in comedy shows
* Why athletes are terrible gamblers
* Whether he considers himself most a part of one franchise
* Why his three seasons with the Pacers (2003-06) were a disappointment
* How players han…
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Nov 22, 2017
Ep. 69: Kelli Towles, Pacers’ Director of Community Relations
Kelli Towles is in her 24th year with the Indiana Pacers heading up the community relations department. She is in charge of community outreach, and involving the players to positively impact Central Indiana.
There are NBA initiatives, such as Jr. NBA Week and Hoops For Troops, and then there are dozen of events unique to the Pacers.
Towles and her team — which includes Darnell “Dr. Dunk” Hillman, Richie Smith, Bobbi Courtright, and Kristina Wedseltoft — field requests, find the right locations and groups to take care of, and then execute the vision.
With Thanksgiving coming up on Thursday, Towles is the perfect guest to discuss how the Pacers are giving back and making a positive impact on the community.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Her start with the franchise and learning through an internship with the team
* The success of Read Like a Pro
* Victor Oladipo…
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Nov 10, 2017
Ep. 68: Mark Montieth Part II – on his latest book
This is part II of my conversation with Mark Montieth, who has covered the Indiana Pacers for several decades.
[Part I – On the Pacers’ encouraging start to the 2017-18 season]
Mark recently published “Reborn: The Pacers and the Return of Pro Basketball to Indianapolis” — and it’s a book I recommend for hoops fans in our great state of Indiana. This book documents the challenges for pro basketball to be sustainable in Indiana and the great lengths a group of people went to get it.
In this well-researched book, he shares all kinds of facts, photos, and nuggets long before the Pacers existed. This is what led to the ABA Pacers, in fact. We’ll also got into his writing process, being self-published, and how sharp it turned out.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Why he was compelled to tell this story
* Media access then vs. today
* The ongoing theme of attendan…
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Nov 3, 2017
Ep. 67: Mark Montieth discusses the Pacers’ start
The Pacers are off to a 5-3 start, winners in three consecutive games. They posted wins over San Antonio and Cleveland this week, and newcomer Victor Oladipo was rewarded for his impressive start with the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Week award.
Mark Montieth has been on the Pacers’ beat for more than a dozen years, and we sat down for an extensive conversation on what we’ve observed thus far.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* The Pacers’ rebranding
* Domantas Sabonis’ natural skills
* A slow start for Lance Stephenson
* Why Oladipo has excelled
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Oct 25, 2017
Ep. 66: ESPN’s Royce Young on Paul George in OKC
Reunion week continues for the Pacers.
On the second night of back-to-back – after handling the Minnesota Timberwolves (with Jeff Teague and Aaron Brooks) – the Pacers should be fired up as they face Paul George for the first time since dealing him to the Oklahoma City Thunder in late June.
George, through his agent, informed Pacers General Manager Kevin Pritchard that he would not be re-signing with the organization that drafted him in 2010 following this season, and would instead opt for free agency. That was a classy gesture. However, word spread across the league that he was determined to play for his hometown team, the Los Angeles — which diminished his trade value.
Just six players are back from last year’s roster, headlined by Myles Turner. The Pacers’ starting center, however, is in the concussion protocol and will miss his fourth straight game.
Royce Young does a terrific job on the Oklahoma City Thunder beat for ESPN.com. On this podcast, we look ahead to George fac…
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Oct 12, 2017
Ep. 65: Max Leinwand, Producer of Pacers games on FSI
Max Leinwand is entering his third season as the producer of Pacers telecasts on FOX Sports Indiana.
For the second time in three years, they will air all 82 games. Already, they televised two of the four preseason games.
I always find it interesting to talk with key individuals behind the scenes that are integral to Pacers games. In Leinwand’s case, who was worked at FOX Sports Midwest since 2005, it’s the picture and presentation that fans consume on television or online with NBA League Pass.
In my conversation Leinwand, he talks about his job, and what you can expect from their FSI broadcasts this season.
The on-air trio of Chris Denari (12th), Quinn Buckner (19th), and Jeremiah Johnson (4th) are together for their fourth consecutive season, and the broadcasts are directed, as always, by Jamie Berns.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* His comfort with the FSI team a…
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Oct 5, 2017
Ep. 64: Mad Ants GM Brian Levy, coach Steve Gansey
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Mad Ants of the NBA’s G League begin their third year under the operation of Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Owner Herb Simon purchased the franchise back in 2015, and most NBA teams later followed in owning their own development program.
The connection between the Pacers and Mad Ants is now close. General Manager Brian Levy communicates daily with the Pacers front office, specifically GM Chad Buchanan.
Steve Gansey, who is entering his third year as head coach, sends a report after every game to Pacers head coach Nate McMillan and frequently talks with longtime Pacers assistant Dan Burke.
For the first time this season, NBA teams can sign up to two players to two-way contracts. This allows a player to spend up to 45 days with the NBA franchise (not including training camp and the time before G League camp) while earning at least $75,000, three times the salary of the average G League player — which is around just $20,000.
The Pacers signed rookie Edmond Su…
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Sep 29, 2017
Ep. 63: Michael Grady
Michael Grady is leaving Indianapolis for the Big Apple.
The Warren Central High School product will be the Brooklyn Nets courtside reporter for the YES Network, one of the prestigious broadcast teams in the NBA.
“Probably the most anxiety or stress that I’ve had in my life, because it’s a big move,” Grady said of his last few weeks. “A big decision. It’s one that didn’t come easy but it’s one that’s right.”
Grady will continue co-hosting The Grady & Big Joe Show, weekdays from 10:00 am to noon on ESPN 1070 The Fan in Indianapolis, wherever he is — his apartment, Nets practice, or another NBA city.
But this new job means he will no longer being sitting right at mid-court, at the scorer’s table for all Pacers home games to handle the public address system. He had been the Pacers’ full-time PA announcer since the 2010-11 season, taking over for Reb Porter.
[Rare opening: Become the fourth PA announcer in Pacers history]
You’ll appreciate Grady’s candidness…
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Sep 20, 2017
Nate McMillan looks ahead to the season
Nate McMillan looks at ease, comfortable in his role and with this team. He’s been with the Pacers since 2013 and has coached more than 1,000 games.
The reset button was hit on the roster and just two starters return (and six players in all) from last year’s team that bowed out in the first round of the playoffs to Cleveland.
Out at the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course Wednesday morning for the annual golf outing that benefits the Pacers Foundation, Nate McMillan first spoke with golfers and then to the media for more than 12 minutes.
What was discussed:
* Youth, and being a “prove it” year for so many players
* How they are going to live by hustle and heart
* Potential starters, and who is on the outside
* Lance Stephenson being the sixth man
* Why he no longer golfs
* Al Jefferson dropping weight
* Damien Wilkins brought in for leadership
Watch his full comments below:
Or, if you prefer a condensed version:
Highlights from 13 minutes with Pacers coach Nate McMillan … on y…
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Sep 14, 2017
Ep. 62: 2002 first-round pick Fred Jones
Fred Jones has mostly remained in Indianapolis since his playing days. He was drafted 14th overall by the Pacers out of the University of Oregon in 2002 and spent four years with the franchise.
He then played four more years with four different teams.
This summer, Jones started Shoot 360 in Indianapolis, which is “shaping the future of basketball development through interactive technology that allows our athletes to test, train, track, and compete like never before.”
It is a relatively new company currently with four franchises; the other three are on the west coast (Washington, Oregon, and California). The grand opening in Indy was on June 3, 2017.
Inside his facility on the north west side of Indy at 8090 Georgetown Road, Jones has one NBA-regulation floor, and then dozens of hoops.
Each hoop is attached to a big monitor that will keep track of makes and provide continuous instruction. There’s also interactive screens that offer games to practice passing skills and more.
(J…
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Aug 22, 2017
Ep. 61: Ralph Reiff on the St. Vincent Center
The Indiana Pacers’ new $50 million practice facility, the St. Vincent Center, officially opens for business on Monday, August 28.
The organization will hold a ribbon cutting at 1:15 pm on Thursday (Aug. 24) with local dignitaries: Governor Eric Holcomb, Mayor Joe Hogsett, and team officials.
Many members of the Pacers’ basketball operations staff are already working out of the St. Vincent Center, a state-of-the-art 130,000-square-foot facility featuring two basketball courts, a sizable training and weight room upgrade, a barbershop, and more.
PHOTOS: Visual update from August 7
Floors 4 and 5 of this facility, which was privately financed, will be for St. Vincent’s use. It is open to the public with primary care services, preventive care, and they will offer cardiovascular services.
On this podcast, I visited with Ralph Reiff, the Executive Director of St. Vincent Sports Performance. If there’s a major sporting event in Indianapolis, like the Final Four, Big Ten Football Ch…
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Aug 13, 2017
Ep. 60: Exit Interview with Nate Taylor
After two years in Indianapolis and on the Pacers beat for the Indianapolis Star, Nate Taylor is moving away.
That’s because he’s able to move back home to Kansas City. His wife, Holly, accepted a senior design job at Barkley, one of the largest independent advertising agencies in the United States.
This doesn’t mean, however, that Nate is moving out of journalism.
Appropriately, I treated this podcast as an exit interview for Nate, who I’ve gotten to know over the last two years covering the Pacers.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on Apple Podcasts.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Their decision to move back home to Kansas City
* His career journey thus far through Boston, New York, South Florida, Indiana
* Favorite NBA arenas to visit
* The Paul George Saga
* Covering Lance Stephenson
* What’s next for him…
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Aug 10, 2017
Ep. 59: Recapping a busy offseason
The Pacers’ brand isn’t the only thing getting refreshed …the team’s roster is, too.
Kevin Pritchard was promoted to General Manager and he had the challenge of trading Paul George, and he did so just before free agency. Then, he swiftly worked to remake the roster. That work is ongoing.
The Pacers currently have 13 players under contract for the 2017-18 season.
They will look very different next season, with as many as four new starters. Myles Turner is the only one sharpie’d into the starting lineup.
On this podcast, I catch you up on most of what has occurred over the last month.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* All of the Pacers’ moves in free agency
* Just six players are left from last season’s 42-40 team
* How six more players from last season remain free agents
* Contract flexibility for next offseason
* Lance Stephenson being the face of the Pacers’ rebr…
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Aug 3, 2017
Ep. 58: Jamelle McMillan
Jamelle McMillan is excelling as a coach in the NBA. It wasn’t his plan, but it worked out that way.
Jamelle, 28, is the son of Pacers head coach Nate McMillan. He remembers watching his dad play growing up, and was a ball boy for Nate’s Seattle SuperSonics team. The two also worked together with USA Basketball in 2012 when Nate was an assistant.
“This game has provided so much for me and my family,” Jamelle said.
The youngest McMillan played four years of college basketball at Arizona State University (2007-11), where he averaged 7.2 points, 3.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds during his senior season as the team captain.
He then remained in hoops as a Director of Basketball Operations at Drake University, and a year later was hired on Monty Williams’ staff in New Orleans. His title was “coaching intern,” but it was a great start being in his early twenties.
After two seasons, Jamelle was promoted to player development coach and later to assistant coach, now under Pelicans coa…
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Jul 7, 2017
Ep. 57: Georges Niang
Georges Niang, the 50th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, still has a lot to show. His rookie season is behind him, though he didn’t get much of an opportunity nor did he make much of it.
The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 0.9 points and 0.7 rebounds in 23 appearances during the 2016-17 season where the Pacers finished 42-40. He made several trips north to Fort Wayne to play for their Development League team, the Mad Ants. And after January, Niang played a total of five minutes for the Pacers.
Summer League in Orlando was supposed to be a time for Georges to show what he can do. The first time, last summer, can be overwhelming as it comes after the draft and shortly after rookie/free agent camp. It’s a lot at once.
This time with one year under his belt Niang was ready … only to suffer a bone bruise in his left knee 87 seconds into the first game. He was then ruled out for the rest of the games.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness…
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Jun 27, 2017
Ep. 56: Mike Yam on T.J. Leaf and Ike Anigbogu
The Pacers went with young talent with great potential in the 2017 NBA Draft. … That’s what a draft is all about, right? Potential.
They used their first-round pick on 6-foot-10 forward T.J. Leaf at 18. With ties to the state and city, including his father, Brad, playing at Lawrence North High School, Leaf made it clear to the Pacers that he wanted to be here. Through his agent, through reporters. And that meant something.
Leaf, who’s 20, led the 31-5 Bruins with 16.3 points and 8.2 rebounds as a freshman.
[First reaction: Pacers coach Nate McMillan on T.J. Leaf]
Pacers President Kevin Pritchard was then ecstatic to see 18-year-old big man Ike Anigbogu still available when they were up again at 47. He’s raw, and not 100 percent, but the team felt comfortable with their medical evaluations of the “physical specimen,” who’s 6-foot-10 and weighs 252 pounds.
Oh, and Anigbogu was also a Bruin for one season.
To learn more about these two, I talked with Mike Yam of the Pac-12 N…
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Jun 23, 2017
Kevin Pritchard on Paul George’s change of heart: ‘A total gut-punch’
Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard spoke with reporters after the 2017 NBA Draft late Thursday, into Friday morning. The Pacers had drafted three players, including UCLA’s T.J. Leaf at No. 18. It was his first draft with the organization as president, elevated to this role after Larry Bird decided to step down.
But for more than 17 minutes, the conversation centered around Paul George and his change of heart, according to Pritchard, who spoke candidly but was obviously frustrated.
“For me it was a gut-punch,” he said. “It was a total gut-punch because we’d had many conversations over the summer about players that we’d like to add, a little bit of the style that we’d like to play, and I was, in my opinion, very inclusive with him. And the message over the summer, up until this weekend was ‘Let’s build a winning team.’ And so when that came in that he wanted to look at another place, it was a gut-punch for us.”
With the draft now over, George…
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Jun 22, 2017
First reaction: Pacers coach Nate McMillan on T.J. Leaf
At No. 18, the Pacers drafted T.J. Leaf out of UCLA. He was born in Tel Aviv, Israel while his father played professionally basketball. Leaf, who played just one year of college basketball, met with the Pacers Draft Combine in Chicago and then came to Indianapolis for a workout on May 23.
Leaf’s father, Brad, attended Lawrence North High School and he has roots in Indianapolis and Evansville.
See Also: T.J. Leaf discusses getting drafted by the Pacers
Shortly after the Pacers’ selection, head coach Nate McMillan came down to the media room to talk about Leaf’s game and what he’ll bring to the Pacers.
“He’s a very skillful big guy that can spread the floor,” McMillan said. “I think his basketball IQ is very high. His ability to spread the floor from the 3-point line. He can put the ball on the floor. He can pass the ball. His ability to stretch the floor I thought was the main thing that he did well. Defensively, he’s going to have to work in that area.”
Watch McMil…
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Jun 9, 2017
Ep. 55: Brian Windhorst
Brian Windhorst is one of the best NBA reporters. He first started in the business with the Akron Beacon Journal, and as a young reporter he was assigned to go check out a stud basketball player with great potential.
It turned out, it was LeBron James, who attended the very same high school Windhorst attended: St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio. Windhorst is now a led NBA reporter for ESPN and his work appears on all of their networks, plus ESPN.com and various podcasts.
With the Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, it seems like every time I look up at my television, which is on ESPN, there is Windy. That’s why I appreciated him spending some time with me on Friday.
He continues to be a great friend and mentor to me, and for that I am thankful.
After the Cavaliers improbable 3-1 comeback in the NBA Finals last year, it was a no-brianer for Windhorst to author a book on LeBron, and his return which led to a title. “Return of the King: LeBron James, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Greate…
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Jun 9, 2017
Ep. 54: Sage Steele
You see Sage Steele all the time on ESPN … on NBA coverage, on SportsCenter, on SportsCenter On the Road. She’s a self-proclaimed military brat, moving around frequently as a child.
She eventually graduated from Carmel High School and Indiana University, and would later work at WISH-TV in Indianapolis before ultimately ended up at The Worldwide Leader. She remains a Pacers fan, and she’s raising her three kids — in the sixth, eighth, and tenth grades — to be fans of the Indiana teams as well.
Steele will soon be moving back to Bristol, Connecticut to host SportsCenter AM – which, as she explains, should get back to the highlight-filled rehash in the world of sports that we all enjoyed until the format changed several years ago.
She’s a great follow both on Twitter and Instagram.
VIDEO: Sage Steele at IU Commencement — ‘Choose the Harder Right Over Easier Wrong’
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitte…
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May 30, 2017
C.J. Miles elects to enter free agency
C.J. Miles will decline his player option and is set to become a free agent on July 1, the Pacers’ versatile forward confirmed to VigilantSports.com on Tuesday.
This move was entirely expected considering he was set to pull in $4.772 million for the final year of a four-year deal he signed in 2014 worth $18 million. The news was first reported by Ben Gibson of 8points9seconds.com.
“If it does come to opting out, it’s not because I want to leave. It’s just solely a business decision,” Miles told VigilantSports.com last month. “It’s just solely because it would be in the best interest of myself, my family, and the people that I have around me.”
Just last offseason, Miles saw Solomon Hill ($58 million) and Ian Mahinmi ($64 million) move on from the Pacers to sign lucrative new contracts elsewhere. With New Orleans and Washington, respectively.
Miles, meanwhile, has earned an estimated $34.265 million over his 12 seasons in the NBA, according to Basketball-Reference.…
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May 3, 2017
Ep. 52: Ryan Vaughn on Indy’s 2021 All-Star Game Bid
Indy officially put in a bid for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game last week. On Monday, April 24 — deadline day for 2020 and 2021 bids to be sent in — Larry Bird and Rick Fuson, Pacers Sports & Entertainment President, delivered Indy’s plans to the NBA Headquarters in downtown Manhattan.
And, of course, they did it in style. As in Bird riding five blocks in a specially-designed IndyCar. Talk about making a strong impression…
[Commissioner Adam Silver on Indy hosting All-Star Weekend: ‘The ball is in their court’]
One man who has plays an important role in Indianapolis hosting big events is Ryan Vaughn, the President of Indiana Sports Corp. This is a world-class organization that is one of the main reasons why this city continues to attract and excel at putting on events like Big Ten Football Championship Game, the Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, the Final Four, and the 2012 Super Bowl.
Vaughn attended Wabash College and was a swimmer. He then earn…
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May 1, 2017
Kevin Pritchard on taking over as Pacers President and his philosophy
Kevin Pritchard was officially promoted to President of Basketball Operations of the Indiana Pacers Monday. The move was made after Larry Bird decided to slide into a part-time advisory role.
“I want to thank Herb, Larry and Donnie (Walsh) for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Pritchard, who had been the team’s general manager since 2012. “As someone who grew up in Indiana, I’ve always felt the Pacers’ pride. The goal is always going to be the same as it has been through Donnie and Larry: to make this a world-class organization.”
[Get to know Pacers executive Kevin Pritchard]
“I’m very happy Kevin is stepping in and glad another Hoosier is in line to take over this job,” Bird said. “He has a lot of experience from the past five years as a GM and he’s ready to step into a leading role. With us, he has had his own ideas on the draft, players, and now he gets an opportunity to push his basketball abilities to the forefront. His role will be no diff…
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May 1, 2017
Larry Bird announces his decision to step down as Pacers President
Larry Bird officially stepped down on Monday as the Pacers’ President of Basketball Operations, a title he has held since 2003.
“I felt it was time to step away in a full-time capacity,” Bird said. “This has nothing to do with my health or our team. I’m 60 years old and I want to do other things away from basketball. I will do some scouting for the Pacers, NBA, college, international, do some appearances and stay in a capacity to advise senior basketball management. I love the Pacers, I grew up with the Pacers and admired them from a very young age. I want to thank the fans for their support throughout my career. I also want to thank (owner) Herb Simon for the many years of loyalty and for allowing me to stay with the team in a different role.”
Added team owner Herb Simon: “This is not a shock to me as Larry has always been up front about someday stepping down. I thank him for all that he has done and am very pleased he is remaining with the Pacers in a different capaci…
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Apr 28, 2017
Ep. 51: Pacers front office shake-up — Larry Bird steps down
As many may have been looking ahead to the weekend or talking about the first night of the 2017 NFL Draft, news broke at 12:29 pm ET that Larry Bird had decided to step away from his duties as the Pacers President of Basketball Operations.
General Manager Kevin Pritchard, who first joined the franchise in 2011, will now take on those responsibilities, a league source confirmed to VigilantSports.com.
In what became an emergency podcast, I shared my thoughts on what went down and how it might impact the organization.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Why Larry Bird’s decision wasn’t surprising.
* Had Bird’s voice become stale?
* Pacers plan of succession.
* Kevin Pritchard rising through the ranks.
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Apr 27, 2017
Nate McMillan’s season wrap-up press conference
Four days after the Pacers’ season came to an end, Sunday afternoon in a Game 4 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, head coach Nate McMillan spoke with reporters about his first season has head coach here.
McMillan answered questions for 25 minutes, with questions ranging from team identity, leadership, and what went wrong during the 2016-17, to their needs going into next year and what exactly individual players must work on.
Just before the press conference began, Tamika Catchings, the newest member of the front office at Pacers Sports & Entertainment, entered. She observed from the back of the room.
Scroll down to the bottom to listen to the entire press conference.
Key points and quotes from the press conference are below:
* Like the players, McMillan sat down with Larry Bird to discuss his first year as Pacers head coach. “Just talked about the season and a little bit about what we would like to do this offseason. It was a good conversation.”
* Capsule of the season: Ne…
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Apr 23, 2017
Ep. 50: Tamika Catchings, newest member of the PS&E front office
So much for retirement, right? For Tamika Catchings, she only has one speed: GO!
Since playing in the final game of her professional basketball career, the four-time Olympian has kept a full plate. Did you expect anything different?
She has traveled with her husband, Parnell. She served as a game analyst for women’s college basketball on the SEC Network. She took over as the owner of her favorite tea shop, Tea’s Me Indy Cafe. And this month, she stayed on with Pacers Sports & Entertainment in an official capacity … on top of running her foundation, Catch the Stars.
Catchings is the newest member of the front office down at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Her official title is the “Director of Player Programs and Franchise Development.” Which will fit nicely on a business card.
This role includes, but is not limited to:
* aid with structure and implementation of player development programs, player relations and community outreach
* help teams build chemistry and continuity a…
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Apr 21, 2017
Ep. 49: Breakdown of Pacers-Cavs with Jason Smeathers
The Pacers trail the Cleveland 3-0 in their best-of-seven first-round series, but it’s been close. C.J. Miles potential game-winning jumper just missed as time expired in Game 1; Game 2 was decided by six points; and in Game 3, the Pacers led by 25 points at intermission — and loss. It was the greatest halftime deficit overcome in a win by the Cavaliers, 119-114.
Three Pacers losses to the LeBron James-led Cavaliers by a total of 12 points.
Jason Smeathers, a basketball trainer with Rob Blackwell over at St. Vincent Sports Performance, joins me on the podcast to breakdown the series. Like me, he was at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for Game 3.
Smeathers is a local product, a graduate from Center Grove High School. He then went on to play one year IUPUI — with George Hill providing the assist on obtaining a scholarship — and he finished his career at IPFW. He then played two years overseas, one year in Australia and the other in Canada.
Now, he’s a keen observer of the NBA produ…
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Mar 12, 2017
Ep. 48: Jermaine O’Neal
“My love for this city and this organization has not wavered.”
That’s Jermaine O’Neal, the former Pacer who was back in Indianapolis Sunday to be part of the Indiana Pacers’ celebration of the 2000s decades.
O’Neal played for seven teams, but he was at his best in Indianapolis where he finished third in the NBA MVP voting in 2004 in a season he led the team to the conference finals, and he was a six-time NBA All-Star.
“I got a chance to establish myself in a way that I can go anywhere in the country and outside of the country, and be recognized because of the base that the Indiana Pacers family extended to me. Because of the support that this city and this state gave me, that type of stuff, man, you just never forget.”
In franchise history, he ranks fifth in points (9,580), sixth in rebounds (4,933), and first in blocks (1,245). O’Neal, who’s just 38, is now a businessman in Dallas, Texas and he has two kids.
View this post on Instagram I just…
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Feb 13, 2017
Ep. 47: Ian Mahinmi
After four seasons with the Pacers, center Ian Mahinmi moved on to the Washington Wizards last July. He signed a four-year, $64 million deal that pays him $16 million annually.
As the Pacers rebuilt their roster and Mahinmi, among others, went elsewhere, it’s been really special to see those guys (and their significant other) remain close.
Recently, George Hill’s fiancé, Sam, C.J. Miles’ wife, Lauren, and more met in D.C. to celebrate the birthday of Alexis — Ian’s wife.
“Basketball is our job. We do what we love, but it’s also a business,” Mahinmi said. “When you spend time with teammates and people like that, I think you become a family and it becomes a brotherhood where it goes way beyond whatever you do on the court. Me and George [Hill] are like real brothers.”
In past years, Mahinmi and Hill would train together in Texas and they remain close friends today. In fact, Mahinmi’s teenage brother, Jason, lives with the Hill’s in Utah.
“It goes way bey…
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Jan 19, 2017
Ep. 46: Solomon Hill
Solomon Hill was always a likable guy, going back from his first conference call after being taken at 23rd by the Pacers in the 2013 NBA Draft. He played three years with the team, and then left in free agency after the team elected to decline their fourth-year team option on his rookie deal after sub-par play.
In July, 2016, he signed with New Orleans for $48 million over four years. As the league’s television rights deal went up, salaries skyrocketed and Hill took advantage.
Before his first visit back to Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Hill had already played the Pacers twice — once in the preseason and again in New Orleans. And while he was glad to return to Indy, it evoked a lot of emotions, too. Good emotions.
“It was definitely different,” he said after the Pelicans fell to the Pacers by three. “I’m kind of just glad to not be coming back here again [this year]. A lot of emotions. I have some brothers, some guys I talk to almost on a daily basis over there.”
Here…
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Jan 18, 2017
Ep. 45: Eddie White on the Pacers’ experience in London
Eddie White has traveled across the world and worked for multiple professional sports teams. He’s currently the Director of Corporate Communications for the Indiana Pacers, and the host of Pacers Overtime on 1070 The Fan in Indianapolis.
White was part of the team’s traveling party to London as the franchise played in its first regular-season game outside of the United States on Jan. 12. They faced the Denver Nuggets across the pond and inside The O2 Arena, which opened in 2007 and holds 20,000.
NBA fans in attendance saw the Pacers play terribly, losing 140-112. “What happened in London stays in London,” C.J. Miles said afterwards.
LISTEN: Podcast with Aaron Eamer, a Pacers fan in London
On this podcast, we don’t talk about the game.
Instead, we talked about everything that led up to the game, like dinner at Kensington Palace, various transportation options in London, and being accompanied by sponsors on the trip.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welc…
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Jan 11, 2017
Ep. 44: Katie Douglas
Katie Douglas is a homegrown talent, playing basketball at all levels right here in her home state of Indiana. First at Perry Meridian High School. Then she won a National Championship at Purdue (1999), and a WNBA Championship (2012) with the Indiana Fever.
She retired from the WNBA in 2014, playing for three teams over 14 seasons. Her body had had enough.
She has since found a new passion as a business owner. And that’s not surprising. Both of her parents were entrepreneurs and business owners, and her business is also a business owner.
Douglas is a franchisee of Orangetheory Fitness, a fresh take on fitness that focuses on heart rate training in each one-hour session. And for her, it’s 16 months in the making.
“Orangetheory Fitness is a one-hour total body workout,” Douglas explains. “We are heart rate interval-based training. We’re for all fitness levels so you can come in whether you are a professional athlete down to someone that’s never worked out.”
The goal is…
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Dec 20, 2016
Ep. 43: Glenn Robinson III on Brody Stephens
Brody Stephens, diagnosed in 2010 with acute myeloid leukemia, is a fighter. The New Palestine native is just eight years old but he’s had to battle like no kid should ever have.
While at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, Brody was visited by Andrew Luck and Jack Doyle of the Colts, Steph Curry and coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors – which made his wish come true. And, Glenn Robinson III of the Pacers took an interest in Brody after reading about his fight.
[Click here to contribute to Brody’s gofundme page for expenses and savings]
Brody has become fond of GRIII, who visited him several times in the hospital. He brought shoes and hats. He has a jersey on the way. They talked NBA and discussed Brody’s extensive card collection. Yes, he even has one of Robinson III, from Gary, Indiana.
Recently, I talked with Glenn about Brody, their relationship, and why Brody inspires him. Listen below.
What's your excuse for not working on ur game?? My man Brody working…
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Dec 8, 2016
Ep. 42: Aaron Eamer
Aaron Eamer was in his Las Vegas hotel tuned to a random NBA game in 2004. Eamer, a native of Bristol, England, was just visiting but he loved the game and decided he would become a fan of whichever team won.
Indiana Pacers 90, New Jersey Nets 80
The Pacers won, and gained a fan for life in the process.
Though he lives 4,000 miles away, Eamer calls the Pacers his favorite team — of any sport — will get looks from friends when he chooses the NBA over other sports and activities.
Eamer recently spent 17 days in Indianapolis to see his favorite team during a favorable homestand, catch a few Colts games, and to see the town showcased on FOX Sports Indiana television broadcasts. Unfortunately for him, many of the Pacers games were when Paul George sat out due to injury — and a Colts game where quarterback Andrew Luck was out.
He already has tickets and plans to attend the Pacers’ game in London against the Denver Nuggets in January.
Before he returned to England, we sat down in…
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Nov 29, 2016
Ep. 41: Brooke Olzendam
Brooke Olzendam previously was the sideline reporter and host for Pacers games airing on FOX Sports Indiana.
Her final season in Indianapolis was with the 2013-14 bunch that reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive year.
She’s doing well, out west and closer to home. And, after two years as a reporter and host on Comcast SportsNet, the Portland Trail Blazers hired her last summer to team up with Kevin Calabro and Lamar Hurd for every Trail Blazers television broadcast on CSN NW.
It was good to catch up with Brooke ahead of the Pacers and Trail Blazers playing twice over the next ten days.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* How’s life out west, and working for the Trail Blazers
* Emotion seeing her former team in town
* Working with Indy native Kevin Calabro
* Early story lines for the Trail Blazers
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Nov 10, 2016
Ep. 40: Jason Smeathers
Jason Smeathers is a basketball trainer with Rob Blackwell over at St. Vincent Sports Performance. They train professionals (both NBA and overseas guys), they train some still in college, and they work with youngsters to prepare them for the years ahead.
Smeathers is a local product, a graduate from Center Grove High School. He then went on to play one year IUPUI — with George Hill providing the assist on obtaining a scholarship — and he finished his career at IPFW. He then played two years overseas, one year in Australia and the other in Canada.
Now, he’s a keen observer of the NBA product — watching games nearly every night.
Full disclosure: Smeathers and Blackwell train the likes of Hill, Gordon Hayward, Shayne Whittington, Brandon Rush, Carl Landry, Jeremy Evans, and Josh McRoberts.
This was my longest podcast to date, and it felt like it flew by. I hope you enjoy our conversation on the 4-4 Pacers, defense, and the talent trained over at SVSP.
Subscribe to the Pa…
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Nov 5, 2016
Ep. 39: Clark Kellogg
Clark Kellogg, though a Cleveland native, spent much of his adulthood working in Indianapolis. He was drafted by the Indiana Pacers out of Ohio State University with the eighth overall selection in the 1982 draft. After he averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds in his rookie season, he was named to the All-Rookie First Team.
He played five seasons in the NBA, but he knee injuries during the final two and it ultimately cut his professional career short.
In 1993, he joined CBS as a college basketball analyst, a job he still holds today, and he worked on Pacers broadcasts. After 32 seasons with the franchise, Kellogg moved on in 2014.
A co-recipient with Tamika Catchings of the Indiana Sports Corporation’s annual Pathfinder Award, Kellogg was back in Indianapolis on Friday. Prior to the luncheon, held at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, Kellogg joined me to record a podcast.
I hope that you enjoy it.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottA…
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Oct 25, 2016
Ep. 38: Senior VP Todd Taylor on 50th season celebration and new amenities
With the Indiana Pacers’ 2016-17 season tipping off this week — at home, Oct. 26 against Dallas — it’s a good time to catch up with Todd Taylor, the Pacers’ Senior Vice President/Chief Sales & Marketing Officer. This is his sixth season with the franchise.
Last year, he explained Hickory Nights, the process it took to make it happen, and what fans could expect. (Click here to listen to that podcast.)
For Pacers Sports & Entertainment, it is a big season. It’s their 50th season, so it’s as much about enjoying the current team as it is looking back to celebrate the team’s history and the individuals who contributed to where they are today.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Success of Hickory Nights
* Decade games, and how they settled on each individual chosen for the bobbleheads
* Fans’ ticket buying habits and secondary markets
* New Lightbound Courtside Clu…
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Oct 18, 2016
Ep. 37: Pacers Preseason Talk
On the latest Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I cover everything that has gone on at training camp. Head coach Nate McMillan is running his first training camp since 2011 — and the differences from last year to today have been evident from the beginning.
Myles Turner and Paul George have missed time but there’s no reason to worry.
There are, however, plenty of reasons to be excited about this team. (And it’s not just because the Colts are having a down year.) Faster play, less structure, more points, and more athleticism — just to name a few.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Updates on FOX Sports Indiana broadcasts
* Explanation of the Six Decade Games
* Training Camp Injuries
* What coach McMillan is asking of his team
* A breakdown of all 16 players with guaranteed contracts
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Sep 25, 2016
Five minutes with Nate McMillan
The job title changed for Nate McMillan on May 16th when Pacers President Larry Bird officially announced that McMillan would be the 15th head coach in franchise history.
McMillan has a wealth of experience leading a team, a head coach for 930 (478-452) games over nearly 12 seasons for two different teams, and the 52-year-old brings an old-school approach.
[VIDEO: McMillan on coaching additions, Niang, and goals for current Pacers]
He joined the Pacers’ bench as Frank Vogel’s top assistant in 2013. He said at his opening press conference that he’s learned a lot since then.
“I think my approach will be a little different than it was back in 2005. It seems like when I started with the Blazers was so long ago but things have changed. The players have changed. How you coached these plays has changed and I think the biggest thing is being able to adapt.
“There is a lot of old-school in me and I won’t lose all of that. But I do understand that you do have to adapt to this…
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Sep 21, 2016
Larry Bird on the Pacers’ upcoming season, and integrating many new faces
Larry Bird, the Indiana Pacers President of Basketball Operations, is like most of us and is looking forward to another NBA season.
The Pacers finished with a 45-37 record last season, good for the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. After losing in seven games in Round 1 to the Toronto Raptors, Bird began making significant changes to the team beginning with the promotion of Nate McMillan to head coach.
At the Pacers Foundation’s annual golf outing, held at Brickyard Crossing Golf Club, Bird spoke with a few members of the media to discuss the upcoming 2016-17 season.
Watch the full interview below:
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Sep 14, 2016
Ep. 36: Josh Corbeil, Head Athletic Trainer
When a Pacers player is dealing with discomfort or an injury, Josh Corbeil is who they contact. At practice or in a game, at home or in the middle of the night, Corbeil is essentially always on call.
Corbeil, officially the Senior Director Medical Operations and Head Athletic Trainer, joined the Pacers in 2004. He took over for legendary athletic trainer David Craig. Since then, he has worked with four different head coaches: Rick Carlisle, Jim O’Brien, Frank Vogel, and now Nate McMillan.
The Boston native holds a bacehlor’s degree in science, master’s in physical therapy, doctorate in physical therapy, and he is a licensed physical therapsist and athletic trainer.
Corbeil, Associate Head Athletic Trainer Carl Eaton, and Director of Sports Performance Shawn Windle have a daily meeting each morning about the 15-man roster and what is going on with each player.
One thing Corbeil and the training staff emphasize is prehab. That’s taking a focus in treating players daily…
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Sep 8, 2016
Ep. 35: George Hill
VigilantSports.com caught up with George Hill Thursday night, his final evening in Indianapolis. The point guard, who was traded to the Jazz in June, is headed to Utah to prepare for the upcoming 2016-17 NBA season with his new team.
[As the Pacers move on from Hill, his love for Indy isn’t going anywhere.]
In a one-on-one interview with the “Hometown Hero,” Hill shares his feelings about leaving town, a fresh start, how he spent his offseason, and his growing family.
From July: George Hill discusses being traded, his relationship with Hayward, Lyles, and death to The Blonde Faze
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
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Sep 7, 2016
Ep. 34: Advance Scout Jimmy Powell
He knows the X’s and O’s of all 30 NBA teams, is on the road over 200 days a year, and his work each season begins when the schedule is released, as it was on Aug. 11.
Right then, he begins mapping out his plan, where he needs to be and how he’s going to get there. The entire process will take him into September, the final month of the NBA offseason.
Jimmy Powell resides in Springfield, Massachusetts and he is entering his 19th season as the Pacers Advance Scout. He was originally hired by Donnie Walsh, his former coach, and it’s a job — breaking down every single opponent in the way each Pacers assistant coach prefers — that he is quite fond of.
“People don’t understand, but I do because I’ve been in this league over 20 years. It all starts with the owner,” he tells me on the podcast. “When you got good ownership, you know there’s going to be stability, they’re always going to give you a chance to win, and they’re going to create a good environmen…
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Aug 15, 2016
Ep. 33: Yogi Ferrell
Yogi Ferrell is ready to begin the next phase of his life, as a professional. After four seasons in Bloomington, the Park Tudor and Indiana University graduate will head to Brooklyn to prepare for training camp near the end of August, one month before camp opens.
Ferrell went through 16 pre-draft workouts but did not get drafted, although teams were interested in drafting and stashing him overseas. Instead, the 6-foot point guard elected to go the route of free agency.
Ultimately, he signed a one-year non-guaranteed deal with the Brooklyn Nets with $100,000 guaranteed, per sources.
It’s a good deal, and now he’ll work to prove worthy of a roster spot on a team that badly needs a spark to help propel the franchise up from the bottom of the standings.
Yogi joined me in studio for an extensive conversation on hoops, his career at IU, looking ahead to the NBA, and more.
[Yogi Ferrell has grown up and is leaving a lasting legacy at Indiana]
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.…
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Aug 2, 2016
Ep. 32: Jalen Rose
CHICAGO, Ill. — Jalen Rose and two dozen students from the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy were in Chicago late last week for an experience of a lifetime. Jeep took care of their travel and then got them hooked up with tickets for Team USA’s exhibition game against Venezuela.
Thursday afternoon, Rose was a man of the people — out at the Navy Pier for an event with Jeep. He later shot hoops while standing in the back of a Wrangler, competed against Pacers star and USA Basketball team member Paul George, and he certainly ensured that the kids and visitors had a good time.
[Click here for a photo gallery]
Prior to George arriving, I spent some time in Jalen’s green room where we talked about a number of subjects. Rose, who played five and a half seasons with the Pacers, is now a studio analyst for ESPN/ABC‘s coverage of the NBA. He also co-hosts a daily show on ESPN Radio.
The @JRLADetroit Basketball Teams enjoying Chi-town from Willis Tower Sky Deck thanks to our amazing…
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Jul 25, 2016
Ep. 31: Carlos Knox
The annual Knox Indy Pro Am is set for another season of games, running Tuesday, July 26 through Sunday, August 7. The Indianapolis-based Pro Am typically goes on for several weeks but this year it will be held on seven dates over a two-week period.
Carlos Knox is the man behind the idea. A former pro overseas and standout at IUPUI — he’s in the IUPUI Athletics Hall of Fame — Knox created the Pro Am to give elite players an opportunity to compete with similar talent during the slow part of the year: The Offseason.
The Knox Indy Pro Am is sanctioned by both the NCAA and the NBA, meaning athletes from both levels are eligible to compete. Three games will be held each night — 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 p.m. — and tickets are free.
For the first time, it will be held at the new Jonathan Byrd Fieldhouse at Grand Park in Westfield. It’s a new, $8.1 million fieldhouse that is part of an estimated $50 million massive complex. The Fieldhouse alone has eight indoor basketball cour…
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Jul 12, 2016
Ep. 30: Glenn Robinson III
ORLANDO, Fla. — After the Pacers played two Summer League games, they had the Fourth of July to themselves. Before relaxing and hanging out with friends, Glenn Robinson III met me in the hotel lobby to record this episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast.
The Pacers signed Robinson III last season to a three-year deal with only a little more than one season guaranteed. The Gary, Indiana native and Michigan product has the athleticism and skill to be a rotational guy in the NBA, and for the 22-year-old it’s about becoming a well-rounded player.
In the middle of the podcast, Kevin Durant announced his intention to sign with the Golden State Warriors — which allowed for a fun, live reaction from both Glenn and I.
See Also: Glenn Robinson III coming into his own
In this podcast, you’ll learn more about who he is, what makes him tick … and what he enjoys doing away from basketball. Thanks again to Glenn for joining the podcast.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on…
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Jul 11, 2016
AUDIO: Jeff Teague officially a member of the Pacers
Indiana’s own Jeff Teague returned home, officially introduced as a member of his hometown team Monday afternoon. A 2007 graduate of Pike High School, Teague is fired up to play home in Indianapolis.
“I’ve always wanted to play for the Pacers,” Teague, 28, said at a press conference held at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
Listen to the 11-minute press conference, plus a nine-minute breakout session with a few other reporters below:
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Jul 8, 2016
AUDIO: Thad Young, Al Jefferson, Jeremy Evans introduced as Pacers
Three new Pacers sat at the table on the dais Friday afternoon, their first day in an official capacity with their new team.
The Pacers acquired Thad Young in a draft-day trade with Brooklyn, signed Al Jefferson to a three-year deal in free agency, and then received Jeremy Evans in a trade with Dallas.
[More on Jefferson with Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer]
In addition to posing for photos with their new jerseys, the newest Pacers talked with the local media for the first time. Listen below to that press conference.
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Jul 8, 2016
AUDIO: Larry Bird & Nate McMillan on their offseason, free-agent signings
Pacers President Larry Bird and head coach Nate McMillan spoke with reporters Friday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
During the 23-minute press conference, the two discussed their offseason moves, the construction of the team, new pieces, and how they feel about the group going into the 2016-17 season.
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Jul 3, 2016
Ep. 29: Rick Bonnell on Al Jefferson
ORLANDO, Fla. — So far in free agency, the Pacers have agreed to terms with one player, veteran big man Al Jefferson. He cannot make it official by signing this new three-year, $30 million deal until after the NBA moratorium on July 7th.
To discuss Jefferson’s game, what he will add to the Pacers, and what kind of person he is, Scott Agness talks with Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer at the Orlando Summer League. He owns that beat and had a great relationship with Jefferson.
The 12-year center from Mississippi has played three seasons with four teams each: Boston, Minnesota, Utah, Charlotte.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* The personality of Jefferson
* Slimming down 20-plus pounds
* The wear and tear on Al’s body
* How he might fit in with the Pacers
* So many Hornets players leaving for big free-agent deals
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Jun 29, 2016
Paul George on being an Olympian: ‘This is a dream of mine’
Fresh off a media blitz earlier in the week with USA Basketball as the 12-man roster was announced, Paul George was back in Indianapolis.
The three-time NBA All-Star has about three weeks before he’ll head west to Las Vegas, on July 17, for Training Camp followed by five exhibition games.
Then, they’ll travel to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the 2016 Olympic Games (Aug. 6-21).
George explained how he got a phone call about two weeks ago from Coach K, and that’s when he committed.
“I always wanted to do this,” he said Wednesday. “This is a dream of mine, to compete for the country. I was pretty excited to join up.
“… I think this just completes the story. Winning the gold medal definitely completes the story.”
More on PG in the Olympics:
* FIRST LOOK: Paul George in his PG-13 Team USA uniform
* George among 12 named to 2016 USA Olympic Team
* PG included in new Gatorade ad campaign, to be featured on bottles in USA uniform
* Why Jeep tapped George to be the face of thei…
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Jun 28, 2016
Georges Niang arrives in Indy
Georges Niang arrived in Indianapolis on Tuesday, eager to join the Pacers. Before taking part in practice No. 1 with the Summer League team, Niang, who the Pacers selected 50th overall in last week’s draft, addressed the local media.
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Jun 24, 2016
Ep. 28: Iowa State coach Steve Prohm
With the 50th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, the Pacers selected forward Georges Niang from Iowa State University. He’s a four-year player with a coach-like mentality for the game.
On this special episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, Iowa State University head basketball coach Steve Prohm joins to discuss Prohm’s game and his potential in the best league in the world.
“I don’t think he could go to a better place,” Prohm said on the podcast.
Standing 6-8 and weighing in at 231, Niang is a versatile player with quality shot. The Pacers hope he can play the spread four position that they’ve needed for quite some time.
In his senior season at ISU, Niang averaged 20.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He is a Iowa State’s all-time winningest player, a two-time All-American, and the recipient of the Karl Malone Award given to the nation’s top post player.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgnes…
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Jun 24, 2016
Pacers GM Kevin Pritchard after the 2016 NBA Draft
The Pacers traded away their first pick for Thad Young, and then later Thursday used their only selection in the 2016 NBA Draft to take forward Georges Niang out of Iowa State University with the 50th pick.
Once the draft concluded, Pacers General Manager Kevin Pritchard discussed the draft and the team’s selection of Niang with reporters.
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Jun 22, 2016
Ep. 27: Tambra Brenner
When I first started this podcast last fall, covering all things Pacers, Tambra Brenner was one of several individuals — beyond the coaches and players — at Pacers Sports & Entertainment I thought fans would enjoy hearing from.
Brenner is the travel specialist at PS&E. Her primary responsibilities include managing the travel for the 10 scouts or so employed by the team. Most of them typically spend more than 220 days on the road and Brenner can help ease that challenge and hopefully make it a smooth process.
She also manages the travel for any guys the Pacers bring in, like the draft hopefuls. Over the last month and a half, she’s booked flights and hotels for nearly 50 prospects. There is also free-agent camp, Summer League, and signings come free agency in July.
Meantime, scouting is a 365-day job so once the draft is over, they’re continuing their research and evaluation for future years.
I hope that you enjoy this unique interview.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast…
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Jun 16, 2016
Ep. 26: Nate McMillan
It’s been exactly one month since Nate McMillan was promoted to Pacers head coach by President Larry Bird. And he has certainly stayed busy.
On this special episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, Scott Agness sits down with coach McMillan to discuss his first 30 days, observing draft workouts, and organizing his team the way he wants it.
From the day he was hired, May 16: Pacers go old-school, seek accountability in promoting Nate McMillan to head coach
McMillan, a former NBA player for 12 seasons with the Seattle Super Sonics, has coached 930 games and served as an assistant coach with USA Basketball for seven years. He spent the last three years as Frank Vogel’s top assistant in Indiana.
McMillan is keeping assistants Dan Burke and Popeye Jones on staff and he will soon add his third — and final — assistant.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on T…
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Jun 14, 2016
Ep. 25: Tom Pritchard
On this week’s episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I’m joined by a familiar name in Central Indiana Sports: Tom Pritchard.
Pritchard played basketball at Indiana University from 2008-12. He was not only part of that special game where IU knocked off No. 1 and previously unbeaten Kentucky at Assembly Hall, but he was also one of the original recruits in 2008 who remained committed despite a coaching change.
Oh, and his put-back jam on Minnesota is one for the highlight reel.
After playing in Bloomington, Pritchard joined the Pacers in the consumer sales department. In May, after three years of ticket sales, he made the decision to leave that job to pursue a job back on the court … in coaching.
Excited to begin a new journey to pursue my dream job in college coaching! Looking forward to getting on the court coaching Summer camps.— Tom Pritchard (@CoachTPritchard) May 11, 2016
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave…
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May 25, 2016
Ep. 24: Pete Philo on NBA scouting and Pro Scout School
Less than one month out from the 2016 NBA Draft, there’s no better time to talk with a longtime NBA scout about the job, sacrifices required, and how one can improve in their player evaluations.
Pete Philo has worked for three NBA teams spanning 13 years. Most recently, he was the Pacers Director of International Scouting for almost three years. Prior to that, he worked in the front offices of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Dallas Mavericks.
[Pete Philo leaves Pacers scouting department]
Philo’s job required him to travel the world, spending more than 200 days each year on the road. It also was critical that he developed strong relationships with key resources overseas.
Philo’s now dedicating his time to TPG Sports Group, an organization for which he’s the owner and president. And one of their biggest projects each year has been the Pro Scout School, held annually in Las Vegas for aspiring front office personnel.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if…
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May 20, 2016
Ep. 23: Chris Denari
We have a lot to get to on this week’s episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast.
The Pacers’ season is over and President Larry Bird made a coaching change, promoting Nate McMillan to the top chair. The team evaluated over 60 players at the NBA Draft Combine and then they have already conducted two pre-draft workouts.
Chris Denari just completed his 10th season as the Television Voice of the Pacers on FOX Sports Indiana. He’s called games at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for over a decade as the Voice of the Indiana Fever from the beginning.
Denari also does freelance work for the Big Ten Network and the IMS Radio Network. He is a tireless worker who truly loves his craft. We’ll get into all of that as well.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Pacers 2015-16 season, ending in seven games to Toronto
* Paul George…
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May 16, 2016
Nate McMillan introduced as Pacers head coach
Nate McMillan, on Frank Vogel’s staff for the last three seasons as associate head coach, was introduced as the Indiana Pacers’ 15th head coach in franchise history at a press conference on Monday afternoon.
[Pacers go old school, seek accountability in promoting McMillan to head coach]
The press conference with McMillan and President of Basketball Operations Larry Bird lasted nearly 30 minutes. Here is the full audio.
(Or, click here to watch it.)
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May 10, 2016
Ep. 22: Jeff Morton, Paul Coro on 3 potential Pacers coaches
The Pacers — more specifically, Larry Bird — are in search of the 15th coach in franchise history. The coaching search is five-plus days in and there hasn’t been any names tied to the jobs.
There are dozens of names of former head coaches that are mentioned with the Pacers, but Bird is diligent in the process and very likely has zeroed in on the next guy he wants to direct the team.
[Paul George thanks Frank Vogel, calls him ‘one of the most influential men’ in his life]
Three possible candidates that have been mentioned in the lists are Brian Shaw, the Pacers associate head coach from 2011-13, Jeff Hornacek, and veteran coach Mike D’Antoni. To learn more about each of their coaching styles and how they might work with the Pacers, I reached out to two reporters who cover NBA teams regularly.
First, Jeff Morton in Denver. He writes for DenverStiffs.com and co-hosts the Colorado Sports Guys podcast. Morton provides terrific insight into what went wrong with Shaw and the…
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May 5, 2016
Ep. 21: Vogel out as coach, Bob Kravitz joins to discuss
The Pacers 2015-16 season is complete after a first-round exit to the Toronto Raptors in Game 7. A few days later, Pacers President Larry Bird decided to change head coaches after Frank Vogel led this team for five and half seasons.
On this week’s podcast, hear highlights of what Bird said at his 23-minute press conference and I’m joined by Bob Kravitz to break it all down.
Kravitz, who has been here for over a decade, has a great pulse on the Indianapolis sports landscape. He’s currently a sports columnist for WTHR.com and he frequently appears on the network for his opinion and insight.
[Frank Vogel releases statement on his time with the Pacers]
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* On how much blame Bird deserves for the Pacers’ season
* If Bird is misguided in believing players tune coaches out after three seasons…
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Apr 28, 2016
Ep. 20: Mike Mazzeo
There’s plenty to talk about now five games into the Pacers’ first-round playoff series against the Toronto Raptors.
On this week’s episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, Mike Mazzeo of ESPN.com joins to analyze the series and the Pacers’ big collapse in the fourth quarter of Game 5 that cost them a lead in the series.
Mazzeo has been covering the series from the Raptors’ perspective. During the regular season, he’s a beat reporter covering the 21-win Brooklyn Nets. That said, there’s no doubt he’s having a good time covering a series between two quality teams.
With Game 6 set for 7:30 pm ET, the Pacers face elimination down 3-2 in the best-of-seven series.
See Also: ESPNEWS to televise its first live NBA Playoff game Friday: Pacers-Raptors Game 6
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* His expectati…
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Apr 22, 2016
Ep. 19: Luis Scola, John Schuhmann
On this week’s episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, Scott Agness covers the Pacers’ first-round series against the Toronto Raptors. As of the recording, the Raptors have a 2-1 lead on the series.
Scott talks with Luis Scola about facing his former team and then dives deep into the series with NBA.com’s John Schuhmann.
See Also: 2016 NBA Playoffs: Pacers-Raptors Round 1 dates set
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, if you like the podcast, please leave a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Scola on Paul George and Jonas Valanciunas’ impact
* Schuhmann on his focus in analyzing the numbers, like plus/minus
* The impact of Toronto’s bench in the series
* What gaps the Pacers need to fill this offseason
* The challenges of being a head coach
* The lack of competitive games in the NBA Playoffs so far
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Apr 15, 2016
Ep. 18: Pacers-Raptors Preview with Michael Grange
Ahead of the Indiana Pacers’ first-round playoff series, Michael Grange of Rogers SportsNet joins Scott Agness on the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast to offer insight from the Toronto perspective.
The Pacers are in the playoffs for the fifth time in six seasons, this year as the No. 7 seed. The Raptors, winners of 56 games, are having the best season in its franchise’s 21-year history.
But they have only won one playoff series.
[Click here to read Grange’s stories on SportsNet.]
An interesting nugget about the teams’ benches: Pacers head coach Frank Vogel, the Eastern Conference Coach of the Month in April, is the fourth-longest tenured head coach in the NBA having been with the Pacers for six seasons. Raptors coach Dwane Casey, in his fifth season, is No. 5.
The best-of-seven series begins at 12:30 pm ET on Saturday, April 16th at the Air Canada Centre and then it will move to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4 on Thursday and Saturday, respectively.
See Also: 2016 NBA Playof…
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Apr 7, 2016
Ep. 17: Matt Dollinger
This week on the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, Matt Dollinger of SI.com joins to discuss the push to the playoffs, the Pacers’ season, and big storylines around the NBA. Dollinger, who has worked at SI since 2010, is an Indiana native and a graduate of Indiana University.
Also, hear from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
He was at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Monday for the NCAA Women’s National Title game, seated beside NCAA President Mark Emmert. Silver discusses his visit to town and his message to several Pacers execs regarding the possibility of Indy hosting an NBA All-Star game.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, please — pretty, pretty please — fill out a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* Dollinger on his role at SI and covering the NBA
* Attending the Sloan Sports Analytics Conference
* The use of biomechanics and wearable technology in the NBA
* Kobe’s farewell tour dragging on
*…
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Mar 24, 2016
Ep. 16: C.J. Miles, Rick Mahorn
On this week’s episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I go one-on-one with the best interview in the Pacers locker room, C.J. Miles … and I talk to the Bad Boy himself, Rick Mahorn.
With the Pacers’ season wrapping up, it’s a good time to have two individuals on to offer their perspective as a current and former player.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes. (And, please — pretty, pretty please — fill out a review.)
I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter or via email.
Topics Discussed:
* C.J. on how difficult it is to face the Philadelphia ‘Tanking’ 76ers
* Health-wise, if he’s where he wants to be this time of year
* Having not attended college, who he roots for in the NCAA Tournament
* Rick on the landscape of the Eastern Conference
* Whether he’d prefer to face the Cavaliers or the Raptors in the playoffs
* And lastly, on his battles with Larry Bird
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Mar 1, 2016
Ep. 15: Rick Fuson, Tamika Catchings
This week on the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I’m joined by two special guests: Pacers Sports & Entertainment President Rick Fuson and Fever star Tamika Catchings.
The Pacers and the city of Indianapolis would like to host NBA All-Star Weekend, and so Fuson, along with several other city officials, traveled to the 2016 NBA All-Star game across the border in Toronto last month to take notes and see what exactly it would take to do so.
Catchings, meanwhile, has a schedule that nobody could keep track of without a calendar (and maybe even an assistant). She got married, participated in All-Star Weekend, then had USA Basketball Camp, and now is on a book tour as her autobiography hit stores on March 1.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes.
I hope that you enjoy this week’s podcast. My thanks to DJ Bandcamp for contributing music to take the podcast to another level. I welcome your questions and comments @ScottAgness on Twitter.
Fuson begins at 2:19, Catchings at 25:39.…
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Feb 23, 2016
Ep. 14: Scot Pollard on his ‘Survivor’ experience
Scot Pollard played in the NBA for 11 seasons, including three for the Pacers, and he won an NBA Championship in his final season, 2008, while with the Boston Celtics.
He’s on the latest season of Survivor, which currently airs at 8:00 p.m. ET on CBS. The group of 18 is gone for seven weeks and isolated on Kaoh Rong, the second largest island of Cambodia. The lone survivor wins a grand prize of $1 million.
Pollard, 41, has always been up for a challenge. At 6-foot-11 he’s obviously long, and being a professional athlete for more than a decade taught him all kinds of lessons. He’s mentally strong and wanted to test his strength.
And his time away led him to having a child on the way with his wife, Dawn.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher.
Topics Discussed:
* Why he wanted to be a contestant
* How he declined his first invitation to be on the show
* What life was like for him on this island in Southeast Asia
* How real this reality TV show tr…
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Feb 20, 2016
Ep. 13: NBA Trade Deadline, Pacers VP Peter Dinwiddie, Bobby Marks
NBA executives were busy this week in the final days leading up the Trade Deadline at 3:00 p.m. ET on Thursday. Most teams remained out of it, including the Pacers (28-25). They decided their best option was to not pull the trigger on any trade.
In this episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I give you my take on what did — and didn’t — go down before the deadline. Plus, I talk with one member of the Pacers’ four-headed monster: Peter Dinwiddie, Vice President of Basketball Operations.
Dinwiddie, a Cathedral High School graduate, has a law degree from New England Law and has been with the Pacers for a decade.
I also talk with former Nets assistant GM Bobby Marks, who’s now with The Vertical.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher.
Topics Discussed:
* Why the Trade Deadline was quiet
* Why we hear so little about the Pacers trade interest
* Lance Stephenson being moved to Memphis
* What the Trade Deadline is like for NBA execs
* How the…
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Feb 9, 2016
Ep. 12: Michael Husain
ESPN will air a 30 for 30 short on the “Save the Pacers” telethon held in 1977. They were out millions of dollars and needed money from folks in Indianapolis to keep the franchise afloat, and in town.
In turn, it was incredibly important to the development of downtown Indianapolis and the sports landscape in the city.
Indianapolis filmmaker Michael Husain was compelled to tell the story and so he pitched the idea to ESPN, who then green-lit the project.
Husain joined me in studio ahead of its consumption by sports fans. The 15-minute short will be posted online Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 10 a.m. ET, and it will then air nationally on ESPN during the 6:00 p.m. ET edition of SportsCenter on Feb. 19.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher.
Topics Discussed:
* Why he wanted to share the story of the “Save the Pacers” telethon
* The pitch to ESPN
* The process of producing a short from concept to air
* How he prefers to interview subjects
* The impact o…
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Feb 5, 2016
Ep. 11: Bill York
Bill York is a staple around Indianapolis sports teams. When there’s a home game, Bill York is sure to be there working.
He began working the stats room at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1957 and has been with the Pacers since the beginning (1967). He says that he even helped unload the Mayflower trucks with the Colts moved to town in 1984.
Sports reporters in Indianapolis media know York, who typically can be seen with his Colts Super Bowl ring on, his Fever WNBA Championship ring, and one (of three) from the ABA Pacers.
At a westside breakfast spot in Indianapolis, we went back in time as York shared stories of the past and how things are different today.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher.
Topics Discussed:
* Growing up in Bunker Hill and being a basketball fanatic
* Why he moved to Indianapolis and how he got hired on at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
* The size of his room to work at Pacers home games, and what it used to be
* How fans embra…
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Jan 18, 2016
Ep. 10: Nate Taylor
Nate Taylor is a fresh voice now covering the Indiana Pacers. His first day with the Indianapolis Star was in September at Pacers training camp.
Taylor, a graduate of the University of Central Missouri, previously was a do-it-all journalist for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. He is married and has an infant son, Hayden.
This week on the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I talk with Taylor, who offers a fresh perspective on the Pacers with the 2015-16 season halfway over.
The Pacers are 22-19, on pace to finish with a 44-18 record, good for seventh in the Eastern Conference.
Subscribe to the Pacers Podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher.
Topics Discussed:
* Nate’s passion for journalism and reporting
* His impressions of the organization
* How the team’s November success may have been a bad thing
* His interview with Pacers President Larry Bird
* Picking one: Small ball or a traditional lineup
* How the Pacers have squandered at least six lossees
* The rookies, Myles Turner and Jo…
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Dec 18, 2015
Ep. 9: Mark Montieth
This week on the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast, I’m joined by Mark Montieth, who has covered the Pacers for decades — first for the Indianapolis Star and for Pacers.com since 2012.
[The podcast is now on iTunes, so subscribe today so that the latest episode will download automatically.]
Topics Discussed:
* Early season success
* Ian Mahinmi’s growth … an Hack-a-Ian
* Luis Scola
* Paul George elevating his game
* The young guys
* How Myles Turner can impact the team once returning
* Can any team dethrone Cleveland in the East
* Breaking ground on the St. Vincent Center
* A new project of his
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Dec 2, 2015
Ep. 8: Jeremiah Johnson
Jeremiah Johnson is in his third season covering the Pacers for FOX Sports Indiana, and his second as the sideline reporter and host.
Johnson, a Ball State graduate, joined the podcast from his hotel room in Los Angeles.
[The podcast is now on iTunes, so subscribe today so that the latest episode will download automatically.]
Topics Discussed:
* On the work that goes into each broadcast, meetings, and information gathering process
* What he believes is the most important job of a sideline reporter
* His career aspirations as a kid, attending Ball State University and being Charlie Cardinal (the mascot)
* How his job impacts his time with family
* Roy Hibbert facing the Pacers for the first time
* Kobe announcing his retirement prior to facing the Pacers
* The Pacers winning 11 of their last 13 games and chemistry being strong
* His favorite arenas to visit
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Nov 19, 2015
Ep. 7: Quinn Buckner on going into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Quinn Buckner was a spectacular athlete. He was a two-sport athlete at Indiana University, part of the 1976 undefeated team, and is one of three individuals to have a championship at every level.
This weekend, with family and friends sharing in the celebration, Buckner will be inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in Kansas City, Missouri.
The ceremony will be emceed by Clark Kellogg, formerly of the Pacers, and Doug Gottlieb.
“As you move along this pendulum of life, it’s about memorable moments,” Buckner said about about this upcoming weekend. “And this will be one of the most memorable moments I’ve ever had athletically.”
[The podcast is now on iTunes, so subscribe today so that the latest episode will download automatically.]
Topics Discussed:
* What he expects this weekend to be like for him, and who will be there
* Why he attended Indiana University
* Why he chose basketball over football after two seasons
* Where he got his hard-nosed…
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Nov 13, 2015
Ep. 6: On their 5-4 start and Myles Turner’s injury
A new podcast is up! It’s a busy time of year so this time, Scott Agness goes solo.
After the Pacers started the season 0-3, they have since gone 5-1 (with their only loss being to the Cleveland Cavaliers by four points).
[The podcast is now on iTunes so subscribe today so that the latest episode will download automatically.]
Topics Discussed:
* How the team bounced back from a bad first week
* Paul George returning to form
* George Hill’s role and how comfortable he has been from the left corner
* Rookie Myles Turner’s thumb fracture and how time off the court can help
* Quick look around the lead
* Shoutouts
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Nov 5, 2015
Ep. 5: Senior VP Todd Taylor on Hickory
The Indiana Pacers unveiled their NBA “Pride” uniform this fall, one that uniquely connects with the community. (Best of all, it’s not a sleeved jersey like most of the “Pride” uniforms around the league.) Several team execs gathered in a room nearly two years ago to brainstorm, and they came to an agreement on Hickory uniforms from the movie “Hoosiers.”
When doing their research, they found out that next year — 2016 — will be the 30th anniversary since the movie was released.
Perfect, right?
On Friday (Nov. 6), the Pacers will wear their Hickory uniforms for the first time against the Miami Heat. It is also their first nationally televised game (ESPN) of the season.
The organization and MGM Studios came to a five-year licensing agreement and this season, the team will wear the uniforms in ten games, six at home. And, at those six home games, the team will celebrate and honor teams or individuals in this state that made a substantial impact.
In addition, Bankers…
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Oct 28, 2015
Ep. 4: FSI Pacers Producer Max Leinwand
A new episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast is here just in time for the season opener — Wednesday night in Toronto.
You’ll be watching on FOX Sports Indiana, who plans to televise all 82 regular season games for the first time ever. You know Chris Denari (10th), Quinn Buckner (17th), and Jeremiah Johnson (2nd), but you don’t know Max Leinwand. Why would you — he’s new to town!
You appreciate the work they all do on game broadcasts — one of the best in the league, in my opinion — and on this podcast you’ll hear Leinwand’s story and how he joined the broadcast team.
Leinwand, who has been employed by FOX Sports Midwest since September of 2005, is the new producer for Pacers broadcasts which means it is his job to cover and share the Pacers’ story all season long.
I spoke with Leinwand Tuesday before he met the team at the airport for Game No. 1.
Topics Discussed:
* His career path from New Jersey to St. Louis
* How he has a history of overseeing…
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Oct 9, 2015
Ep. 3: Mad Ants GM Brian Levy
Brian Levy is just 31 years old but he’s now tasked with running the basketball division of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA’s Developmental League. Exactly one month ago, the Indiana Pacers finalized a deal to purchase the Mad Ants and thus have a one-to-one affiliation.
For the past five years, Levy was with the Bakersfield Jam, the Phoenix Suns’ affiliate. There, he held a number of titles: video coordinator, director of player personnel, and, for the past three years, assistant GM.
[Click here to follow Brian on Twitter]
It’ll be real interesting to see how the Pacers utilize the D-League and how they use the Mad Ants as an asset. With so many young players, several guys — like Glenn Robinson III, Rakeem Christmas — will be sent up to Fort Wayne for playing time and development.
[Pacers conclude exhibition schedule Oct. 22 in Fort Wayne against Cody Zeller and the Charlotte Hornets]
Topics Discussed:
* Getting his hands dirty in the D-League
* How he was hire…
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Oct 5, 2015
Fever Podcast: Briann January, Tamika Catchings, Maya Moore, Stephanie White, Gary Kloppenburg
MINNEAPOLIS — As you may know, I recently started a Pacers Podcast. Well, covering the WNBA Finals I thought it was appropriate to put together a Fever episode.
[VIDEO: Stephanie White talks with the media ahead of Game 2]
The Fever were victorious in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, 75-69. At Monday’s media availability, I spoke with Briann January, Tamika Catchings, coaches Stephanie White and Gary Kloppenburg of the Indiana Fever, and Maya Moore of the Minnesota Lynx.
[January’s best-ever performance leads Fever to Game 1 win]
Topics Discussed:
* January’s starring role in Game 1
* Fever team chemistry
* Importance of enjoying the Finals
* What the Lynx need to do better in Game 2
* Moore’s admiration for Catchings
* Catchings’ two critical steals
* White de-emphasizing statistics
* Kloppenburg back working for the team
The series continues Tuesday night at the Target Center (8:00 p.m. ET, ESPN2).
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Oct 1, 2015
Ep. 2: Camp Begins, Conversations with Joe Young, Shayne Whittington, Jordan Hill
The Pacers opened training camp for the 2015-16 season on Tuesday and will have had three two-a-days by week’s end. I spoke with three players — rookie Joe Young, second-year big man Shayne Whittington, and Jordan Hill — with different perspectives about camp.
Topics Discussed:
* Joe Young’s heart and passion for the game
* Young’s motivation, plus his goal to be Rookie of the Year
* Shayne Whittington on being healthy and the big man battle
* Whittington’s typical off-day and his favorite restaurants around Indy
* Jordan Hill’s transition to a new team and the competition up front
* Fatigue setting in
I welcome all feedback: @ScottAgness on Twitter or Scott@VigilantSports.com.
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Sep 27, 2015
Ep. 1: Recapping a busy offseason
The first episode of the Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast is here…
Topics Discussed:
* The Pacers busy “off”season
* Asset building
* Paul George at power forward
* Tracking 10 storylines as camp opens.
I appreciate you taking the time to listen. I welcome all feedback: @ScottAgness on Twitter or Scott@VigilantSports.com.
Enjoy!
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