Quick Intro: Indiana Pacers History

Looking for a quick intro to Indiana Pacers history? The Indiana Pacers are a professional basketball team that plays in the National Basketball Association. They play in the central division, and their colors are blue and yellow.

The Indiana Pacers have a storied history. Their franchise started in 1967, playing for the American Basketball Conference. During their run in the ABA they would win the ABA championship three times, in 1970, 1972 and 1973. They would also appear in the ABA finals in 1969 and 1975.

In 1976 the Indiana Pacers joined the NBA. During their time in the NBA, success hasn’t been easy. The Pacers have only made it to the NBA finals once, in 2000. The Pacers lost the series to the Los Angles Lakers in six games. While the Pacers have had eighteen playoff appearances and six NBA conference finals appearances, they have failed to bring home an NBA championship.

While postseason success has been elusive, the Indiana Pacers have produced some successful players. Hall of Fame players Adrian Dantley and Alex English had success as Pacers. The 1983 season saw Ohio State's great Clark Kellogg come to Indianapolis. In addition, in 1987 the Pacers drafted Reggie Miller, who would become the face of the franchise.

The Indiana Pacers have had fourteen coaches over their franchise's history. Of note was NBA great Larry Bird, who coached the team from 1997 to 2000. Bird won the NBA Coach of the Year award in 1998. NBA great Isiah Thomas would also coach the team, from 2000 to 2003. Hall of Fame coaches Jack Ramsay and Larry Brown also coached the Pacers.

The Indiana Pacers play in Conseco Fieldhouse. The Fieldhouse is also home to five retired numbers. George McGinnis (30), Reggie Miller (31), Mel Daniels (34), Roger Brown (35) and coach Bob Leonard (529) all have jerseys retired in their honor.

The Indiana Pacers have struggled recently, making a playoff appearance recently in 2006. Their 2009 to 2010 season was disappointing, as they earned a 32 and 50 record.

Resources:

ESPN.com