Breaking News: Indiana Pacers Continue Strong Recruiting Streak, Secure 2026 Linebacker While Allowing Veteran Guard to Test Free Agency
June 19, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN — The Indiana Pacers are making waves on and off the court this offseason, and the latest developments have fans and analysts alike buzzing with anticipation. The franchise, already riding a high after a strong playoff showing, has now added another major piece to its future by securing a commitment from one of the top high school football prospects in the Class of 2026—a linebacker who has turned heads nationwide.
Yes, you read that right. While the Pacers are best known for their hardwood success, the franchise made headlines today for an unusual but strategic maneuver: backing a cross-sport NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) partnership with four-star linebacker Tyler “TJ” Green out of Carmel High School. The partnership was made possible through the Pacers’ parent company and its affiliated sports marketing agency, which has increasingly ventured into cross-promotional deals with standout high school and college athletes across multiple sports.
Green, a 6’3”, 230-pound defensive force with over 20 scholarship offers, announced his NIL partnership with the Pacers during a press event this morning, sporting both his high school letterman jacket and custom Pacers-themed cleats. “This is more than a business deal,” Green said. “It’s about building something in Indiana, staying close to home, and growing with a community that believes in me.”
The Pacers’ front office emphasized that while the team isn’t branching into football, this type of partnership helps elevate the franchise’s brand among younger athletes and fans, especially with new NIL rules reshaping high school and college sports. “We’re committed to supporting Indiana athletes,” said Pacers General Manager Chad Buchanan. “This is part of that larger vision.”
However, while eyes are on the future, the Pacers are also facing some tough decisions regarding their current roster. Veteran shooting guard Buddy Hield, who has been with the team since 2022 and played a key role in the team’s three-point resurgence, has been allowed to test free agency.
Hield, 32, averaged 12.7 points per game this past season, shooting over 38% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch defenses has long been valued, but with younger players like Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard stepping into larger roles, the Pacers are opting to explore cap flexibility.
“We love Buddy and everything he’s brought to this team,” head coach Rick Carlisle said in a statement. “This is about timing, opportunity, and allowing him the chance to find the right fit if it’s not here.”
As the Pacers continue shaping their roster and expanding their brand influence, it’s clear the franchise is embracing a bold, multifaceted approach to team-building and marketing. Whether it’s grooming rising football stars through NIL deals or trusting their young basketball core to carry the torch, Indiana appears to be all in on a hybrid future—one rooted in both performance and vision.
