In a stunning development just weeks before the start of NBA training camps, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has announced his sudden departure from the franchise, turning down a multi-year contract extension that was reportedly on the table.
Carlisle, 65, made the announcement Monday morning in a brief press conference held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Flanked by Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan and team president Kevin Pritchard, Carlisle revealed that he had made the “incredibly difficult” decision to step away from coaching, citing personal reasons and a desire to “explore new directions” in his professional life.
“This was not an easy choice,” Carlisle said. “The Pacers organization, the fans, and this city have meant a great deal to me. But after deep reflection and conversations with my family, I’ve decided it’s time to move on.”
Carlisle did not elaborate on what his next steps would be, but sources close to the situation say he is not retiring from basketball entirely. Speculation is already swirling that he may pursue a front-office role or return to television as an analyst.
A Second Run Cut Short
Carlisle returned to the Pacers in 2021 for a second stint as head coach, following a 13-year tenure with the Dallas Mavericks that included an NBA championship in 2011. In his most recent run with Indiana, he led a promising young roster centered around All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton and breakout forward Bennedict Mathurin. The Pacers made a surprise run to the Eastern Conference Finals in the 2024-25 season, earning Carlisle praise for helping transform a rebuilding team into a contender.
Carlisle’s sudden exit has left many in the organization stunned.
“We were hoping to have Rick here for many more years,” Pritchard said. “But we respect his decision and are grateful for everything he’s done to elevate this franchise. He leaves with our utmost respect.”
What’s Next for the Pacers?
The coaching vacancy comes at a critical juncture for the Pacers, who are widely seen as a team on the rise. The front office will now have to act quickly to identify a replacement ahead of training camp. Assistant coach Lloyd Pierce is expected to be a leading candidate for the interim role, though the team may look externally for a long-term solution.
Tyrese Haliburton, who has often credited Carlisle for his development into one of the league’s premier point guards, expressed his surprise on social media.
“Coach Carlisle changed my life. Forever grateful. Wishing him nothing but the best 🙏💙,” Haliburton posted on X (formerly Twitter).
As the Pacers regroup and begin the search for a new leader, one thing is clear: Rick Carlisle’s departure marks the end of an era — and the beginning of a pivotal new chapter for Indiana basketball.
