In a move that surprises few but thrills millions of basketball fans across the globe, CBS Sports has officially crowned Reggie Miller as the greatest Indiana Pacers player of all time. The legendary sharpshooter, often referred to as the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time), has once again cemented his place in basketball history, surpassing a field of 356 former and current Pacers athletes to claim the top honor.
Wait—NFL’s GOAT?
Before the sports purists clutch their jerseys in disbelief: no, Reggie Miller didn’t suddenly take a snap under center or run a 40-yard dash in pads. The “NFL” mention seems to be a playful editorial error making waves online, but make no mistake — this honor belongs squarely in the realm of the NBA. And more precisely, within the storied history of the Indiana Pacers franchise.
A Career Etched in Gold and Grit
Drafted 11th overall by the Pacers in the 1987 NBA Draft, Reggie Miller spent his entire 18-year career with Indiana, becoming the face of the franchise and one of the most iconic players in NBA history. Known for his deadly accuracy from beyond the arc, clutch performances, and relentless trash talk, Miller redefined what it meant to be a franchise cornerstone.
He retired in 2005 with 25,279 career points, ranking him among the top scorers in league history at the time. His 2,560 career three-pointers stood as the NBA record for years, only to be surpassed in the modern three-point revolution.
Moments That Made the Man
From his unforgettable 8 points in 9 seconds against the New York Knicks in 1995 to his epic playoff duels with the likes of Michael Jordan, Reggie Miller didn’t just play the game — he lived for the spotlight. His rivalry with Knicks superfan Spike Lee has become the stuff of basketball folklore, adding fire to some of the most intense playoff series of the 1990s.
Beyond the stats, Miller’s loyalty to the Pacers — never leaving Indiana despite tempting offers — helped define the ethos of a player who chose legacy over rings.
CBS Sports’ Historic Announcement
According to CBS Sports’ latest in-depth ranking of all-time Pacers greats, Miller was chosen from a pool of 356 players who have donned the blue and gold since the team’s ABA inception in 1967. Their criteria included performance, impact, longevity, cultural influence, and legacy.
“Reggie Miller didn’t just lead the Pacers — he was the Pacers,” said CBS Sports analyst and former NBA player Richard Jefferson. “His influence on the game, the city of Indianapolis, and the league as a whole is undeniable. He’s more than just the greatest Pacers player — he’s one of the greatest to ever lace up sneakers.”
Legacy Beyond the Court
Since retiring, Miller has gone on to become a well-respected broadcaster for TNT, bringing his passion and knowledge of the game to millions of viewers. Yet even in the commentator’s chair, his legacy as Indiana’s ultimate icon has never faded.
A Fanbase Rejoices
Social media erupted with the news, with fans from Indiana to international corners celebrating the long-overdue recognition. “#ReggieGOAT” began trending within hours, and the Pacers organization quickly announced plans to honor Miller with a week-long tribute, including a special in-arena ceremony.
Conclusion: A Crown Long Deserved
Whether it’s on highlight reels or in the hearts of fans, Reggie Miller’s legacy is etched in gold. And while CBS Sports may have tripped over an acronym or two, there’s no mistaking this crowning moment: Reggie Miller is not just a legend — he’s the undisputed GOAT of the Indiana Pacers.
And for Indiana? There’s never been anyone quite like him — and likely never will be again.
