In a move that has stunned NBA fans and tugged at the heartstrings of Indiana Pacers faithful, longtime center Myles Turner has officially agreed to a 4-year, $107 million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. Shortly after the news broke, Turner took to social media to pen an emotional and heartfelt farewell to the city of Indianapolis, the Pacers organization, and the fans who stood by him for nearly a decade.
Turner, who spent his entire 9-year NBA career with the Pacers before this blockbuster move, didn’t hold back his feelings in his farewell message.
“Indianapolis will forever be home,” Turner wrote. “This city raised me. I came here as a teenager, and I’m leaving as a man. Through highs and lows, wins and losses, you all embraced me. To the fans – thank you for your endless love. I never took a single moment in the Blue and Gold for granted.”
Turner, known for his elite shot-blocking, floor-spacing ability, and leadership, became one of the most consistent and respected players in the league during his time in Indiana. Drafted 11th overall in 2015, he developed into the heart of the Pacers’ defense and a mentor to many younger players coming through the organization.
In his message, Turner also gave a special shoutout to his teammates and coaches.
“To my teammates – past and present – I’m grateful for the brotherhood we built. You all pushed me to be better every day. And to the coaches and staff who believed in me and helped me grow – thank you for investing in me as both a player and a person.”
While fans are saddened by his departure, many understand the allure of joining a championship-contending team like the Bucks, where Turner will now team up with the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. The deal not only secures his future financially but also puts him in a position to chase the NBA title that eluded him in Indiana.
Still, Turner emphasized that the Pacers will always hold a special place in his heart.
“This isn’t goodbye. It’s ‘see you later.’ I’ll always be a Pacer at heart. Thank you, Indy. Forever grateful.”
The Indiana Pacers organization also released a statement thanking Turner for his years of service, calling him “a cornerstone of our franchise” and “a true professional both on and off the court.”
As Myles Turner begins a new chapter in Milwaukee, his legacy in Indiana remains firmly intact – as a leader, a warrior, and a beloved Pacer.
