ESPN HEADLINE:
CONGRATULATIONS: Indiana Pacers Basketball Appoint NBA Legend Reggie Miller as New Assistant Coach
By ESPN Staff Writer
June 24, 2025
In one of the most stunning yet celebratory announcements in franchise history, the Indiana Pacers have officially appointed Reggie Miller — the Hall of Famer, five-time NBA All-Star, and undisputed greatest player in Pacers history — as their new assistant coach for the upcoming NBA season.
After years of speculation, countless fan campaigns, and even some subtle teasing from Miller himself during his TNT broadcasting career, the prodigal son has finally returned home — not as a player, not as a commentator, but as a coach, ready to mentor the next generation of Pacers stars.
A Full-Circle Moment
The announcement was made early Tuesday morning at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard and Head Coach Rick Carlisle flanking Miller at the podium. Cheers erupted from fans gathered outside the venue as the official news broke on social media, quickly trending under hashtags like #ReggieReturns and #PacersLegendBack.
“It’s time,” Miller said, smiling with visible emotion. “I’ve always had basketball in my heart, and Indiana has always been my soul. This isn’t just about X’s and O’s. This is about legacy. This is about giving back to the team, the city, and the fans who made me who I am.”
For fans of the NBA — and especially those who came of age in the ‘90s — Reggie Miller is synonymous with the Pacers. Drafted 11th overall in 1987, he spent his entire 18-year NBA career with Indiana, racking up 25,279 points, most of them with his signature three-point shot that helped revolutionize the perimeter game. He became a household name thanks to his fierce rivalry with the New York Knicks, his ice-cold clutch performances, and that iconic choke sign at Madison Square Garden.
Yet despite being retired for nearly two decades and comfortably cemented as one of the all-time greats in both Pacers and NBA history, Miller never fully left the game.
“I’ve always stayed close,” Miller said. “Whether it was through broadcasting, training, or mentoring, basketball never left me. But being back on the court, wearing the blue and gold — this feels different. This feels right.”
Coaching Roots and Modern Ambitions
While Miller has never officially coached at the NBA level before, insiders say he’s been closely involved with the Pacers behind the scenes in recent years, serving in informal advisory roles and working with players during the offseason. According to Head Coach Rick Carlisle, the addition of Miller to the coaching staff was years in the making.
“This isn’t a publicity stunt. This is about culture,” Carlisle emphasized. “Reggie understands what it means to wear this jersey, to fight for this city. He knows what it takes to win. He’s going to help us build the kind of tough, smart, unselfish basketball that this franchise is known for.”
The Pacers, who made a surprise run to the Eastern Conference Finals this past season behind rising stars Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin, believe Miller’s influence can take them to the next level.
“He’s a living legend,” said Haliburton. “I grew up watching YouTube clips of him killing teams in crunch time. Now, I get to learn from him every day. It’s crazy.”
The Miller Effect
Beyond the tactical benefits of his experience — particularly his perimeter shooting expertise, late-game decision-making, and basketball IQ — Miller brings something even more intangible: identity.
“Reggie is Indiana basketball,” said Donnie Walsh, former Pacers GM and the man who drafted him. “Having him on the sideline, in the locker room, mentoring these guys? That’s like having a compass in every huddle.”
Fans are equally thrilled. Season ticket sales spiked within hours of the announcement, and Miller’s newly branded “Coach 31” gear sold out on the Pacers’ online store within minutes. Social media has exploded with tributes, memes, and nostalgic highlights — especially of his infamous 8 points in 9 seconds against the Knicks.
Longtime Pacers fan and Indianapolis native Karen Richards said it best: “This is more than basketball. This is history meeting the future.”
What’s Next?
According to team sources, Miller will focus primarily on offensive strategy and player development, particularly mentoring the team’s young guards and wings. He will also work closely with the front office during free agency and the NBA Draft, lending his insights on team culture and player mentality.
When asked if this assistant coaching role could lead to a head coaching job someday, Miller chuckled.
“Let’s take it one step at a time. I’m here to learn too. I may have played the game for almost two decades, but coaching is a whole new beast. I’ve got an incredible staff around me, and I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”
He also hinted at opening his own basketball academy in Indiana focused on youth development and community outreach — a passion project he’s long spoken about but never acted on until now.
Legacy, Loyalty, and Love
In an era where loyalty in sports can often feel transactional, Miller’s return is a refreshing reminder of what it means to come full circle. He’s not just another former player looking to build a resume — he’s coming home.
“This is about heart,” Miller said, his voice cracking slightly. “I gave my heart to Indiana as a player. Now I’m giving it again as a coach. Let’s make history — together.”
As training camp looms in late September, the Pacers are already seeing a shift in energy — a renewed sense of purpose, pride, and unity.
And for the city of Indianapolis, seeing Reggie Miller once again on the sidelines, in blue and gold, isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a revival.
Would you like a version formatted like a press release or a social media post as well?
