The Indiana Pacers have long been recognized for their rich basketball history, with a legacy built upon the contributions of numerous legendary players. From the ABA days to the NBA, these athletes have left an indelible mark on the franchise.
**Reggie Miller** stands as the most iconic figure in Pacers history. Spending his entire 18-year NBA career with Indiana, Miller became renowned for his exceptional three-point shooting and clutch performances, particularly against the New York Knicks. He amassed 25,279 points, making him the franchise’s all-time leading scorer . A five-time All-Star and Hall of Famer, Miller’s No. 31 jersey was retired by the Pacers in honor of his contributions.([Wikipedia][1])
**Roger Brown**, a key figure during the ABA era, was instrumental in the Pacers’ three championships. Known as “The Man With a Thousand Moves,” Brown was a four-time All-Star and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 . His jersey No. 35 was retired by the Pacers, cementing his legacy.([NBA][2])
**Freddie Lewis** was another pivotal player from the ABA days, contributing significantly to the Pacers’ success. A three-time ABA champion and the 1972 Playoffs MVP, Lewis averaged 16.1 points per game over seven seasons with the team. He also earned three ABA All-Star appearances and the 1975 All-Star Game MVP award .([NBA][2], [Wikipedia][3])
**Mel Daniels**, a dominant force in the paint, was a two-time ABA MVP and a cornerstone of the Pacers’ championship teams. His rebounding prowess and scoring ability made him one of the most formidable centers in the league during his tenure.
**Jermaine O’Neal**, who joined the Pacers in the early 2000s, was a six-time All-Star and a key figure in the team’s success during that era. His scoring and defensive abilities were instrumental in the Pacers’ deep playoff runs.
**Rik Smits**, nicknamed the “Dunking Dutchman,” was a consistent scorer and solid rebounder for the Pacers. He earned his first and only All-Star nod in the 1998 season and was known for his reliable presence in the post.([NBA][2])
**Pascal Siakam**, acquired by the Pacers in 2025, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the team. A three-time NBA All-Star and the 2019 NBA Most Improved Player, Siakam’s versatility and leadership are expected to bolster the Pacers’ lineup .([Wikipedia][4])
These players, among others, have shaped the identity of the Indiana Pacers, each contributing uniquely to the team’s storied history. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations of basketball enthusiasts.
[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggie_Miller?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Reggie Miller”
[2]: https://www.nba.com/news/top-5-all-time-indiana-pacers-scoring-leaders?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Top 5 All-Time Indiana Pacers scoring leaders | NBA.com”
[3]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freddie_Lewis?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Freddie Lewis”
[4]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_Siakam?utm_source=chat
gpt.com “Pascal Siakam”
