In a surprise move that has reignited discussion around the Indiana Pacers’ journey toward becoming an NBA title contender, former head coach Nate McMillan has sent a thoughtful and motivating message to current head coach Rick Carlisle, offering guidance, encouragement, and a reminder of the unique culture of the Pacers franchise.
McMillan, who coached the Pacers from the 2016–17 season through 2020, is widely respected for stabilizing the team during a transitional era and instilling a strong defensive identity. Though his tenure ended without a deep playoff run, he remains admired within the organization for his leadership and no-excuses approach to the game.
Nate McMillan’s Message: “Indiana Is Built on Grit”
In a recent feature with NBA Coaches’ Journal, McMillan took a moment to address the current state of the Pacers and offered a personal message to Rick Carlisle, who has led Indiana through an exciting youth-focused rebuild and is now steering a team full of potential stars like Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, and Jarace Walker.
>“Rick, you’ve got a group that’s hungry, talented, and fearless. Don’t forget what makes Indiana different—we’re not Hollywood, we’re not flash. We’re grit. We’re fundamentals. We’re team-first. Build that culture, hold them accountable, and give them the freedom to grow. The talent is there—the next step is belief.”
Rick Carlisle Responds: “That Means a Lot Coming from Nate”
When asked about McMillan’s message during a press availability at the Pacers’ practice facility, Coach Rick Carlisle offered high praise for his predecessor:
> “That means a lot coming from Nate. He laid the foundation for a lot of the players and principles we still carry today. He’s a coach’s coach—disciplined, direct, and committed to the game. We’re working hard to build something special here, and hearing his words just fuels the fire.”
Carlisle, in his second stint with Indiana, has been instrumental in shaping a high-tempo, modern style of play that maximizes the youth and athleticism of the current roster. After a promising playoff push last season, expectations are rising in Indianapolis.
Pacers Players React
The message from McMillan resonated beyond the coaching staff. Veteran and young players alike expressed appreciation for the legacy of leadership that continues to influence the locker room.
Tyrese Haliburton, the team’s All-Star point guard and emotional leader, said:
> “Coach McMillan laid down values that are still part of who we are. We’re trying to carry that tradition forward—with our own flavor, of course.”
Myles Turner, one of the few players who overlapped with both McMillan and Carlisle, added:
>“Two great coaches. One message: defend, compete, and stay together. That’s what Pacers basketball is.”
Pacers Culture: Past and Present United
Since the departure of McMillan in 2020, Indiana has shifted toward a more modern, fast-paced offense while still valuing the principles that defined his coaching philosophy—hard-nosed defense, accountability, and consistency.
With rising stars, improved depth, and a rejuvenated fanbase, the Pacers enter the 2025–26 NBA season with a sense of possibility that hasn’t been felt in years. And with McMillan’s unexpected message, the connection between past and present has been rekindled in a way that may only strengthen the team’s resolve.
Final Word
In the ever-changing world of the NBA, messages like Nate McMillan’s serve as a reminder that while rosters shift and coaching strategies evolve, culture and identity endure.
As Rick Carlisle continues to lead the charge in Indiana, he does so with the echoes of a former leader behind him—reminding the franchise of who they are, where they came from, and how close they might be to reaching the next level.
Stay tuned with Pacers Nation News for the latest updates on preseason action, roster developments, and Indiana’s quest for a championship return.
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