In a jaw-dropping moment that has left the NBA world stunned, Indiana Pacers owner Herb Simon** has made headlines by naming franchise legend Reggie Miller to a senior leadership role — while simultaneously calling out current General Manager **Chad Buchanan** in an explosive public statement.
At a hastily arranged press conference early this morning at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Simon didn’t hold back.
> **“Reggie Miller is the heart of this franchise. It’s time he takes the wheel,”** Simon began. Then, in a surprising turn, he turned directly to front office leadership:
> **“This move should’ve happened long ago. Chad — your mistakes and incompetence have made this necessary. Enough is enough.”**
### Reggie Miller Returns in a Power Role
Miller, who spent his entire 18-season NBA career with the Pacers and remains the face of the franchise for many fans, will reportedly take over as **Head of Basketball Operations** — a role that puts him above Buchanan in the hierarchy and gives him sweeping authority over personnel, development, and coaching decisions.
Sources inside the organization say Miller had been in quiet talks with Simon over the summer, voicing concerns about the team’s direction and stalled playoff ambitions.
> **“I’ve bled blue and gold my whole life,”** Miller said in his brief statement. *“This city deserves a team that competes at the highest level. I’m not here to watch it fall apart. I’m here to restore it.”*
### Fallout: What Happens to Chad Buchanan?
The press conference left Chad Buchanan’s status in limbo. While he has not been formally dismissed, sources say his influence is now “severely limited,” with most key decisions now requiring Miller’s sign-off.
Under Buchanan, the Pacers made modest progress, but consistent playoff absences, questionable draft picks, and what many view as conservative moves have fueled fan and internal frustration.
Simon’s public rebuke marked a sharp turn in tone:
> *“This team should be contending. Not rebuilding. Not hesitating. Reggie understands what winning means in Indiana. And I trust him more than anyone to get us back.”*
### A Franchise at a Turning Point
Reggie Miller’s return is already igniting excitement among fans, many of whom see it as long overdue.
**“We finally have someone who actually *cares* about the legacy,”** said longtime fan Marcus Eldridge outside the arena. *“Reggie isn’t going to accept mediocrity. That’s what we need.”*
Miller’s role will include:
* Final say on player trades and acquisitions
* Oversight of draft and scouting operations
* Input on coaching and team culture
* Re-engagement with the community and fanbase
This marks a historic moment for the Pacers — bringing back the franchise’s greatest icon not as a figurehead, but as the *shot-caller*.
### What’s Next?
The Pacers have yet to clarify Buchanan’s position going forward, though an official statement is expected later today. Meanwhile, Miller is set to meet with the team and coaching staff before the end of the week to outline his vision.
