BREAKING NEWS: Indiana Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle Agrees to Sign Another “Best Fielder” After Bizarre Practice Incident
In a stunning and unconventional move, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has reportedly agreed to sign another “best fielder” to the team — but not from the hardwood. According to sources close to the organization, Carlisle was inspired to recruit a baseball outfielder after witnessing an unexpected crossover moment during a joint charity event with the Indianapolis Indians.
The surprise decision came after Indians center fielder Jake “Jet” Harmon made a diving catch during a celebrity softball game that left Carlisle “absolutely floored.”
“I haven’t seen that kind of lateral speed and hand-eye coordination since prime Kawhi,” Carlisle told reporters. “I know he’s never played organized basketball, but I’m convinced he can switch onto a guard and contest threes better than half the league.”
Pacers front office members were initially skeptical but eventually greenlit a 10-day exhibition contract for Harmon, under the league’s new “multi-sport athlete trial” clause introduced in the 2025 CBA. Harmon, who has never played in a professional basketball game, expressed surprise but excitement about the opportunity.
“I just came for the hot dogs and charity, but now I guess I’m guarding Steph Curry next week?” said Harmon, laughing. “Guess I better learn how to dribble.”
While the move raised eyebrows across the NBA, some fans are already embracing the chaos.
“We signed a minor league baseball player to help our perimeter defense? This is either genius or we’re tanking in July,” one Pacers fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Carlisle, however, doubled down on his logic: “Defense is defense. If you can track a 90 mph line drive, you can switch on a pick-and-roll.”
The Pacers are expected to unveil their newest “fielder” during an upcoming summer league game, pending Harmon finding the right size basketball shoes.
