In a stunning and historic development for both the Indiana Pacers and the National Basketball Association, the team’s long-time legend and Hall of Famer Reggie Miller is making a triumphant return to the organization — not as a player or broadcaster, but as the Chief NBA Officer.
The announcement was made earlier today by Pacers CEO Herb Simon, flanked by members of the Simon family and senior team executives, during a highly anticipated press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The decision marks a bold and symbolic shift in the Pacers’ front office leadership, as well as a celebration of one of the most iconic figures in franchise history.
A Return Decades in the Making
Reggie Miller, who spent his entire 18-year NBA career with the Indiana Pacers from 1987 to 2005, remains the all-time leading scorer in franchise history and one of the most revered shooting guards the game has ever seen. Known for his clutch shooting, intense rivalries — particularly with the New York Knicks — and leadership on and off the court, Miller left a lasting legacy when he retired in 2005.
“This isn’t just a return — it’s a homecoming,” said Herb Simon, who has owned the team since 1983. “Reggie is more than just a basketball player for us. He is the heart and soul of this franchise, and we believe he is uniquely suited to lead us into a new era of excellence, not only for the Pacers but within the broader NBA landscape.”
What Does a Chief NBA Officer Do?
The newly created position of Chief NBA Officer will place Miller in a hybrid leadership role. According to the Pacers’ official statement, Miller will serve as a bridge between team operations, league relations, and global outreach.
His responsibilities will include:
-
Acting as the primary liaison between the Pacers and the NBA league office.
-
Spearheading player development and mentoring programs.
-
Representing the Pacers at key NBA events and on international business initiatives.
-
Advising on basketball operations, including draft strategy, trade policy, and culture-building.
While he will not be involved in day-to-day coaching or general management duties, his voice will carry significant weight in all major basketball decisions.
Miller Speaks: “Time to Give Back”
Dressed in a sleek navy suit and standing beside a Pacers jersey emblazoned with his iconic No. 31, Miller expressed gratitude, humility, and enthusiasm during his emotional remarks.
“I owe everything to this city, this franchise, and this fanbase,” Miller said. “The Pacers believed in a skinny kid from Riverside, California, when nobody else did. Now it’s my turn to give back — not just with my voice, but with my actions, my leadership, and my heart.”
Miller added that his vision includes “bringing a championship to Indiana, building the next generation of leaders, and making the Pacers a global symbol of integrity, excellence, and passion.”
League Reaction: A Celebrated Move
The NBA community has responded positively to the announcement, with messages of support flooding in from players, executives, and fans across the country. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement calling Miller’s return “a powerful moment for the league and a shining example of how the NBA family remains deeply interconnected.”
Looking Ahead
With the Pacers emerging as a young and promising team in the Eastern Conference, Miller’s leadership could be the catalyst for a cultural transformation both on the court and behind the scenes. His championship mindset and deep-rooted loyalty to the organization may be just what Indiana needs to climb back into true title contention.
As the 2025–26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Indianapolis — not just for the players on the court, but for the legendary figure now steering the ship from the front office.
Leave a Reply