OFFICIAL NEWS: The Indiana pacers today announced they have acquired forward Reggie Miller and center Rik Smits via a seven-team trade with Atlanta, Brooklyn, Golden State, the Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota and Phoenix…….see more
In one of the most shocking and unconventional moves in professional basketball history, the Indiana Pacers have officially announced the acquisition of legendary forward Reggie Miller and All-Star center Rik Smits via a seven-team trade involving the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Phoenix Suns.
The transaction, confirmed by Pacers President of Basketball Operations Chad Buchanan has sent the NBA world into a frenzy — not just for its sheer complexity, but because it involves the return of two of the most iconic players in franchise history decades after they last suited up.
While initial reports sparked confusion due to both Miller and Smits having been retired for over two decades, Pacers officials clarified that this deal is part of a special NBA Legends Activation Agreement— a groundbreaking initiative reportedly approved by the league to honor franchise heritage in innovative marketing and mentoring roles.
Despite sensational headlines, Miller (58)and Smits (58) will not be returning to the hardwood as active players. Instead, they will rejoin the Pacers in hybrid front office, player development, and ambassadorial roles
Reggie Miller, the Hall of Fame sharpshooter and all-time leading scorer in Pacers history, will serve as Senior Advisor of Culture and Shooting Development working closely with young guards and mentoring the next generation of Indiana stars.
Rik Smits, the 7-foot-4 “Dunking Dutchman” and longtime Miller teammate, will join the team as Director of International Player Development, focusing on scouting and mentoring Indiana’s frontcourt.
The seven-team structure of the trade — which involved exchanges of draft rights, legacy brand rights, and ambassadorial exemptions — is largely symbolic, designed to orchestrate the return of the duo within NBA trade framework guidelines.
Reggie and Rik are the Pacers. Bringing them back isn’t just about honoring the past — it’s about embedding their DNA into our future. Their leadership, presence, and experience will help shape a new era in Indiana.
Pacers fans were initially stunned by the breaking headline — some wondering if it was a publicity stunt or a social media prank. But as details emerged, reactions turned to excitement, pride, and nostalgia.
This city raised me. Now I get to give back in a deeper way. I’m here to help our guys shoot better, play smarter, and understand what it means to wear that Pacers jersey.
I’ve always followed the team from afar. Now I’m excited to be back in the building, helping the next generation thrive.
League sources confirmed this deal is part of a new NBA Legacy Integration Program, designed to formally reconnect legendary players with their former franchises in impactful roles. The Pacers are the first team to take full advantage of the program’s “Heritage Acquisition Clause,” which allows for ceremonial trade structures to re-sign franchise icons under special terms.
It’s inspiring to see legends like Reggie Miller and Rik Smits return to where their greatness began. The league fully supports efforts that blend history, culture, and future growth.
The return of Miller and Smits aligns with Indiana’s renewed focus on player development, culture-building, and strengthening ties between generations. As the Pacers continue to develop stars like Tyrese Haliburton Bennedict Mathurin, and Jarace Walker, having two franchise legends back in the building could provide the emotional and competitive boost the team needs