Pacers welcome franchise legend in locker room before season finale

The Indiana Pacers failed to close out their campaign on a positive note after losing to the Detroit Pistons, 133-121, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday.

The Pacers finished their season with the worst record in team history at 19-63. It was a huge downgrade from their inspired run to the NBA Finals last season.

It was difficult for the Pacers to stay optimistic throughout the season, as they were getting blown out almost every night. But it was not for the lack of trying. The squad’s injuries were just too much to overcome.

Before battling the Pistons, Indiana coach Rick Carlisle tried to motivate his players by introducing them to team legend Dale Davis in the locker room.

“This is the great Dale Davis. One of the all-time great enforcers in the NBA and for the Pacers. Some of the biggest rebounds in franchise history at the end of games, this guy went up and got. And games like tonight are games that he lived for, where there was stuff going on out there,” said Carlisle.

“This is the great Dale Davis. One of the all-time great enforcers in the NBA.”

Coach Carlisle invited Dale Davis into the locker room after tonight’s game to meet the team. pic.twitter.com/ZRkJzUZlkx

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) April 13, 2026

Davis played for the Pacers for 10 years, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 2000. He also became an All-Star that season. He tallied averages of 9.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks during his stint in Indiana.

He teamed up with Antonio Davis (no relation) to form one of the toughest frontcourt duos in the league. Opponents were scared to drive when they were patrolling the paint.

Incidentally, Davis finished his career with the Pistons, retiring in 2007.

The Pacers were hobbled by injuries all season, with Tyrese Haliburton, Ivica Zubac, Obi Toppin, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, TJ McConnell, Johnny Furphy, and Jarace Walker all missing time.

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