Explore every episode of the podcast Setting The Pace: A Pacers Podcast

Alex Golden is joined by Bradley Knight of The Pacers Post Up for a deep dive into the Indiana Pacers' first preseason game of the 2026-27 season!

After Indiana's 123-112 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Alex and Bradley take a different approach to breaking down the action, separating everything they saw into three categories:

THE HIGHS. THE MIDS. THE LOWS.

First, the guys discuss everything that impressed them about Indiana's preseason debut. Which players stood out? What were the most encouraging developments? And what gave them the most confidence heading into the rest of the preseason?

Next, they dive into the mids. These are the performances, developments and observations that weren't necessarily great or terrible but deserve a closer look. What showed promise? What still needs time? And which players left them wanting to see more?

Finally, it's time for the lows.

What didn't look right in Indiana's first game? Which areas need the most improvement? And what concerns, if any, should Pacers fans have after watching this new-look roster take the floor?

Throughout the episode, Alex and Bradley go back and forth on their observations, share different perspectives and discuss what they want to see from the Pacers as the preseason continues.

The good, the average and the disappointing. Nothing is off limits!

A fun, detailed breakdown of Indiana's first preseason game with Bradley Knight on today's Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to recap the Indiana Pacers' 123-112 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in their first preseason game of the 2026-27 season!

The biggest storyline of the night was Tyrese Haliburton making his long-awaited return to an NBA court after nearly 16 months away. And what better place for it to happen than Ames, Iowa, the home of his alma mater, Iowa State?

Alex and Facci spend plenty of time discussing Haliburton's return, what stood out about his performance and just how special it was to see Indiana's franchise point guard back on the floor in front of a passionate Cyclones crowd.

The guys then dive into the game itself, highlighting Jarace Walker and Aaron Nesmith, who stood out as two of Indiana's most impactful players. What made their performances so encouraging, and what could it mean for their roles moving forward?

Alex and Facci also break down how Rick Carlisle utilized his rotation, which players made strong impressions and what areas still need improvement as Indiana works toward the regular season.

And it wouldn't be a game in Ames without a little extra entertainment!

Braden Smith received quite the welcome from Iowa State fans, who booed the former Purdue point guard seemingly every time he touched the basketball. The guys discuss the hilarious atmosphere and some of the memorable moments from the crowd.

Haliburton's emotional homecoming, standout performances from Walker and Nesmith, early rotation takeaways and plenty of entertaining moments from Ames.

Pacers basketball is officially back, and Alex and Facci break it all down on today's Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to get you ready for the Indiana Pacers' first preseason game!

After a full week of training camp, it's finally time to see this team take the floor against another NBA opponent. Alex and Facci go through their five biggest things to watch as the Pacers begin preseason action.

What should we be looking for from the rotations? Which players have the most to prove? And what can we actually learn from the first preseason game after spending the last week hearing about everything happening behind closed doors?

The guys also discuss what this game means for Tyrese Haliburton, who gets the opportunity to return to Iowa State and play at his alma mater. After everything Haliburton has gone through to get back on the court, it's a pretty special setting for one of his first games back.

Then, Alex and Facci close out the show with some major praise for the Pacers from two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash.

When asked which team outside of the Knicks he would pick to win the Eastern Conference, Nash didn't hesitate: the Indiana Pacers.

Nash explained why Indiana was both a head and heart pick for him and reflected on what he viewed as one of the NBA's great underdog stories during the Pacers' 2025 run.

Five things to watch in the preseason opener, Haliburton's Iowa State homecoming and an NBA legend buying into the Pacers' chances in the East—all on today's Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to recap a busy first week of Indiana Pacers training camp!

With four practices officially in the books, the guys have plenty of new information to discuss as we get our first real glimpse at this year's team.

Alex and Facci discuss the encouraging early signs from Tyrese Haliburton, what we've learned about Ivica Zubac's adjustment to Pacers basketball and why Kelly Oubre Jr. continues to receive so much praise from coaches and teammates.

The guys also dive into some of the early rotation developments. Where do Jarace Walker and Ben Sheppard currently stand? What have we learned about the second unit? And which young players have started turning heads behind the scenes?

Plus, the latest on Larry Nance Jr.'s injury, Braden Smith's development, the two-way players and what Rick Carlisle's early rotations could be telling us about his plans for opening night.

It's only Week 1, but we've already learned A LOT about this year's Pacers.

Alex and Facci break it all down on today's Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for another episode of Setting The Pace, and for the first time this season, we finally got to see the new-look Indiana Pacers take the court together!

The guys recap everything they saw from Pacers Fan Jam, beginning with the scrimmage and an impressive performance from Kelly Oubre Jr.

Oubre led the way with 17 points, giving Pacers fans their first glimpse of the scoring punch and energy he can bring to this roster. Ivica Zubac added 12 points and six rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton was back on the floor doing Haliburton things after his long-awaited return to action.

Alex and Facci break down the scrimmage, go through the stats and discuss what stood out from Indiana's first public action together.

Of course, there's only so much you can take away from a Fan Jam scrimmage. Nobody was going full speed, the intensity wasn't close to a regular-season game and the entire event was designed to put on a show for the fans. Still, it was a fun first opportunity to see how all of the new pieces looked alongside one another.

Then, things get interesting.

The guys pivot to the annual rookie singing and dancing competition, where Rienk Mast, Keba Keita and Braden Smith had to show off their talents in front of the Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd.

Who had the best performance? Who deserved to win? And, more importantly, what songs would Alex and Facci choose if they were forced to grab a microphone and sing in front of thousands of Pacers fans?

Basketball is officially back in Indiana, and the guys have plenty to discuss after a fun first look at this year's Pacers!

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson recap a heartbreaking end to the Indiana Fever's season after they fall on the road to the Las Vegas Aces in Game 3.

Indiana had multiple opportunities to tie the game and potentially take the lead, but when the Fever desperately needed a big shot, they couldn't find one.

Alex and Casey discuss how the Aces' defense consistently put Indiana in difficult situations, forcing tough looks and making every possession feel increasingly important as the game progressed.

One of the biggest differences came at the free-throw line. Las Vegas attempted 35 free throws compared to Indiana's 20, an enormous disparity in a game the Fever ultimately lost by 11 points.

The guys also dive into the difficult shooting performances from Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, who combined to shoot just 13-of-41 from the floor. What did Las Vegas do defensively to make life so difficult for Indiana's backcourt, and where did the Fever miss opportunities to capitalize?

On the positive side, Aliyah Boston delivered when Indiana needed her. Boston was arguably the Fever's best player in Game 3 and finished as just a -1 in plus-minus despite Indiana losing by double digits.

Unfortunately, it wasn't enough.

With the season officially over, attention now turns toward an offseason filled with important questions. Changes are needed—but what changes should the Fever actually make? Which pieces should remain part of this core? And what needs to happen for Indiana to take another step next season?

Alex and Casey begin looking at what's next while putting a bow on a difficult Game 3 and an emotional end to the Fever's season.

Plus, Casey joins the show from the road in New Town, North Dakota—which, according to him, is a lot cooler than the old one.

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Alex Golden is joined by Kent Sterling for another loaded conversation about the Indiana Pacers as the start of the regular season draws closer!

After spending much of the week discussing Tyrese Haliburton, Ivica Zubac and Indiana's biggest offseason additions, Alex and Kent turn their attention to several Pacers who haven't received nearly as much attention.

They start with Pascal Siakam. After carrying an enormous burden last season, what could Pascal look like with significantly less on his shoulders? How much easier can Haliburton's return make life for Siakam, and could that allow Indiana to get an even more efficient version of its veteran star?

Then, it's time for Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith.

Both players gained valuable experience last season while being asked to take on larger roles. Now that the roster is whole again, how can they take everything they learned and apply it to a team with championship expectations?

Alex and Kent also discuss T.J. McConnell and one important question: how much does the veteran point guard have left in the tank?

From there, the guys dive into why Obi Toppin fits this Pacers core so well, whether Jay Huff is good enough to consistently handle the backup-center role and what Jarace Walker can learn from Toppin's career path.

Can Jarace embrace becoming a dependable system player and carve out a long-term role in Indiana?

The conversation then shifts to Kelly Oubre Jr., what he adds to the roster and how his skill set could complement Indiana's existing pieces.

Of course, the guys spend plenty of time on Tyrese Haliburton and Big Zu.

How healthy will Haliburton look after a year away? How much can Zubac's screening, size and presence around the basket open up Tyrese's game? And what different wrinkles can Rick Carlisle utilize with a center like Zubac that Indiana simply hasn't had before?

And because it's an Alex Golden and Kent Sterling episode…

You already know Myles Turner isn't escaping the conversation completely unscathed.

Siakam. Nembhard. Nesmith. McConnell. Obi. Huff. Jarace. Oubre. Haliburton. Zubac.

A deep dive into the Pacers players and storylines that could ultimately determine just how special this season can become.

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Alex Golden is joined by Kevin Bowen of 93.5 and 107.5 The Fan for a wide-ranging conversation previewing one of the most anticipated Pacers seasons in years.

The guys start with something that feels noticeably different around this team: championship expectations are real—and the Pacers aren't running from them.

For the first time since trading for Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana enters a season openly talking about competing for an NBA championship. Alex and Kevin discuss how much expectations have changed, the pressure that comes with them and why this season feels different from the previous stages of the Haliburton era.

Of course, so much of that begins with Tyrese's return.

The Pacers haven't been shy about admitting just how much they missed Haliburton last season. Kevin and Alex discuss what Indiana looks like with its franchise player back, what realistic expectations should be after a full season away and just how quickly Tyrese can get this team operating at the level we've seen in the past.

Then, the attention turns to Ivica Zubac.

How does Big Zu fit alongside Haliburton and Pascal Siakam? How different will Indiana look with Zubac anchoring the middle? And could his skill set ultimately make this version of the Pacers even more dangerous?

Alex and Kevin also dive into Kelly Oubre Jr. replacing Bennedict Mathurin and just how dramatic of a stylistic change that could be for Indiana. That leads into a conversation about Mathurin's post-Pacers career and whether the way things have unfolded since the trade has surprised Kevin.

From there, the guys examine a potential concern for Indiana's future: the young talent pipeline is beginning to thin out.

What's next for Jarace Walker? How important is this season for his future in Indiana? And with fewer young players waiting in the wings, how will the Pacers continue developing talent while simultaneously trying to win a championship?

Plus, Kevin reacts to Braden Smith adding roughly 15-16 pounds of muscle in just a few months and what the former Purdue star's development could mean for his NBA future.

Finally, the guys shift over to the Indiana Fever and discuss their fighting chances heading into a decisive Game 3.

Championship expectations. Haliburton's return. Zubac's fit. Oubre replacing Mathurin. Jarace's future. Braden Smith's transformation.

A loaded Pacers season preview with Kevin Bowen!

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back with another episode of Fever Focus, breaking down the Indiana Fever’s gritty win over the Las Vegas Aces to keep their season alive and force a decisive Game 3.

The guys dive into the players who helped swing the game for Indiana, including Raven Johnson, Lexie Hull and Myisha Hines-Allen, and how the Fever chose to meet Las Vegas with physicality rather than trying to match the Aces with size. They also discuss Aliyah Boston settling in after a rough first quarter and doing an excellent job keeping A’ja Wilson in check, Caitlin Clark continuing to dazzle, and the overall toughness and effort Indiana showed throughout the night.

Topics include:

• Raven Johnson, Lexie Hull and Myisha Hines-Allen making a major impact
• Why Indiana chose physicality over size against A’ja Wilson and the Aces
• Aliyah Boston locking in after a difficult first quarter
• Boston’s work defensively keeping A’ja in check
• Caitlin Clark continuing to make big plays when Indiana needed them
• The grit, effort and toughness that defined the Fever’s performance
• How Indiana found a way to stay alive and send the series back to Las Vegas for Game 3

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Alex Golden is joined by Jeremiah Johnson, sideline reporter for the Indiana Pacers television broadcast, for an inside look at the early days of Pacers training camp and what is standing out about this new-look team.

The guys begin with the latest injury news surrounding Larry Nance Jr. What is the current outlook for Indiana's newest veteran big man, and how could his absence impact the early stages of training camp and the preseason?

From there, Alex and JJ zoom out and discuss a bigger question surrounding this team: How are the Pacers viewed nationally?

After everything Indiana has experienced over the last two seasons, where does this group fit into the Eastern Conference conversation now that Tyrese Haliburton is returning? Jeremiah shares his perspective on how expectations have changed and what people outside of Indiana might be overlooking about this roster.

Then, it's time to talk about the new additions.

Which newcomers have stood out to JJ early on? What has impressed him about the new faces Indiana added this offseason? And how could those additions change the way Rick Carlisle and the Pacers play this season?

Alex and Jeremiah discuss what they've seen and heard around the team as Indiana begins putting the pieces together for the 2026-27 campaign.

Finally, the guys shift from the court to the broadcast.

With Pacers basketball entering a new era on DAZN, Jeremiah explains what fans can expect from the television broadcast this season, what will be different and what he's most excited about as the broadcast team prepares for opening night.

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Alex Golden is joined by Tom Lewis of Indy Cornrows to break down everything they learned from a LOADED Indiana Pacers Media Day!

There was no bigger storyline than Tyrese Haliburton.

After missing all of last season, Tyrese made it clear that he's ready to get back on the court. Alex and Tom discuss what stood out from Haliburton's comments, the excitement surrounding his return and what his presence means for a Pacers team trying to rediscover the magic that carried it to the NBA Finals two seasons ago.

Then, it's time to talk BIG ZU.

Ivica Zubac discussed the process of building chemistry with Haliburton and Pascal Siakam and how their collective basketball IQ has helped accelerate that process. Zubac also shared an interesting comparison between the Pacers and the Croatian national team, pointing to the camaraderie and genuine relationships within both groups.

How quickly can this new trio come together? And how will Indiana's style change going from Myles Turner to Zubac in the middle?

Alex and Tom dive into the differences between the two centers and why Zubac's arrival could unlock a different version of this Pacers team.

The guys also discuss Pascal Siakam's continued evolution as a leader, what they learned about newcomers Kelly Oubre Jr. and Larry Nance Jr., and how the veteran additions are already fitting into Indiana's culture.

Rick Carlisle also provided some fascinating perspective on the past and present.

Alex and Tom react to Carlisle reflecting on his relationships with former Pacers players and discuss the growing bond between Haliburton and Reggie Miller, bringing together two different generations of Pacers basketball.

But Media Day wasn't only about what they heard.

It was also about what they didn't hear.

There wasn't much discussion surrounding Jarace Walker, Johnny Furphy or Ben Sheppard, raising some interesting questions about where each young player currently stands entering training camp.

From Haliburton's return and Zubac's fit to Siakam's leadership, the newcomers, Carlisle, Reggie Miller and some under-the-radar storylines, Alex and Tom break down their biggest takeaways from Pacers Media Day and everything that stood out as Indiana officially begins the 2026-27 season.

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The Fever had a rough night in Las Vegas, and Casey and Alex are here to sort through what went wrong.

On this episode of Fever Focus, the guys break down Indiana’s loss to the Aces, from the frustrating officiating to the bigger issues that mattered more over the course of the game. The whistle was a problem, but Las Vegas controlled the matchup in too many areas, and the Fever never found enough rhythm, defense, or scoring punch to keep pace.

Topics include:

• The officiating and why it added to the frustration of the night
• How the Aces outplayed the Fever across the board
• Why Indiana needs more from Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell
• The defensive issues that made the game feel uphill from the start
• A’ja Wilson’s dominance and the challenge of dealing with a player who can take over so many different ways
• What the Fever have to clean up moving forward
• Raven Johnson’s strong minutes and why she looks like a real young depth piece

A tough loss, a lot to fix, and a few things worth taking from it as the Fever continue through a crucial stretch.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for a fun Sunday edition of Setting The Pace, and there's plenty to discuss with Pacers Media Day officially upon us!

But first, the guys react to Kelly Oubre Jr.'s first extended interview since joining the Indiana Pacers.

Oubre opened up about his decision to come to Indiana, why the opportunity to play alongside Tyrese Haliburton was so appealing and what he believes he can bring to a Pacers team looking to get back into championship contention.

Alex and Facci discuss Oubre's comments about his three seasons in Philadelphia, what that chapter of his career meant to him and why Indiana could be the perfect next stop for the veteran wing.

Then comes one of the coolest moments from the interview.

Oubre shared his connection to Reggie Miller and revealed that he actually cried watching Miller play his final NBA game. The guys react to Oubre's appreciation for the Pacers legend and what they're learning about Indiana's newest addition before he even takes the floor in a Pacers uniform.

Then, it's time to turn the page to PACERS MEDIA DAY!

Alex will be in the building alongside the rest of the media asking questions, so Alex and Facci go through some of the biggest things they want answered before training camp begins.

What will the Pacers say about integrating Ivica Zubac alongside Haliburton and Pascal Siakam? What is Rick Carlisle's message to a team going from 19 wins to championship expectations? Will Indiana be cautious with Haliburton's workload throughout the regular season? And how will players entering contract years approach the season without new deals in place?

Alex shares some of the questions he hopes to ask and Facci weighs in on what answers he's most interested in hearing as the Pacers officially begin a new season.

Plus, there's a little football talk sprinkled in at the beginning and end of the show for good measure.

Oubre's first comments. Haliburton's influence. A Reggie Miller story we weren't expecting. And the biggest questions heading into Pacers Media Day.

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***This episode was recorded before the conclusion of Thursday's game between the Valkyries and Sparks, and Aces and Mercury. 

The Indiana Fever are officially staring down the postseason, and Casey and Alex are here to break down what could be waiting on the other side.

On this episode of Fever Focus, the guys talk through the injury concerns around Ty Harris and Aliyah Boston, then look at how the playoff picture could shake out depending on the results of tonight’s games. With the Valkyries and Aces both still in the mix as possible opponents, the question becomes less about name value and more about matchups.

Topics include:

• The latest concerns around Ty Harris and Aliyah Boston
• How tonight’s results could shape Indiana’s playoff opponent
• What a series against the Valkyries would look like
• What a series against the Aces would look like
• Why Las Vegas is dangerous even if the Fever have played them well historically
• Why Golden State’s style can make life so difficult for Indiana’s offense
• Whether the better matchup is actually the less comfortable one
• How much star power should matter compared to scheme, pressure, and rhythm
• Kelsey Mitchell’s historic scoring streak coming to an end

It’s a full playoff preview as Casey and Alex wait to find out who the Fever will see in Round 1.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to recap everything we learned from the Pacers' annual preseason front office press conference with general manager Chad Buchanan and assistant general manager Ted Wu.

And there was A LOT to discuss.

The biggest news surrounds Tyrese Haliburton, who is preparing to return after missing all of last season. What did Buchanan reveal about Haliburton's health heading into training camp? How has his body changed during his time away? And what should Pacers fans expect as Tyrese finally gets back on the floor?

From there, Alex and Facci dive into Ivica Zubac and some fascinating comments from the front office about how Indiana plans to incorporate its new starting center.

Does Zubac need to adjust to the Pacers, or do the Pacers need to adjust to Zubac? What does the front office believe he can add to this group, and why is Indiana still extremely confident in the massive trade that brought him to Indianapolis?

The guys also discuss Kelly Oubre Jr. and what the Pacers believe their biggest offseason acquisition can bring to the rotation.

Then, there's an important health update on Johnny Furphy as he continues working his way back from a torn ACL. Alex and Facci break down where Furphy is in his recovery and what his timeline could mean for Indiana's depth this season.

The conversation also turns toward player development and how the Pacers plan to utilize their three two-way players. How much time will they spend developing with the Noblesville Boom? What type of roles does Indiana want them playing in the G League? And how does the organization balance development with preparing those players to contribute at the NBA level?

Plus, Buchanan and Wu discuss James Johnson's return for training camp, why the organization wanted him back around this group and the impact his veteran presence can have.

Finally, Alex and Facci react to what the front office had to say about Pascal Siakam's leadership and the role he has embraced inside the Pacers locker room.

Training camp is almost here, and the Pacers front office just gave us plenty to discuss before things officially get underway.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to put a bow on their Pacers Player Preview Series!

Instead of splitting the final two installments into separate episodes, the guys combine them for one loaded finale featuring Obi Toppin, Johnny Furphy, Jay Huff and Ivica Zubac.

Four completely different players. Four completely different roles. But each one has a chance to help unlock something important for this Pacers team.

The guys begin with Obi Toppin, who returns to an important role off Indiana's bench. How much will playing alongside Tyrese Haliburton again help Obi? What does he need to improve? Could we see more Toppin at the small-ball five? And what does a successful season look like for one of Indiana's most important reserves?

Next is Johnny Furphy, who continues working his way back from an ACL injury. The guys discuss what expectations should realistically look like for Furphy, whether he can work his way back onto the court this season and what would make this year a successful step forward in his development.

Then, Alex and Facci turn their attention to Jay Huff.

Huff enters the season with an opportunity to prove he can consistently handle the backup-center job. Can his outside shooting become a legitimate weapon? What does he need to do defensively? How many minutes can he earn behind Zubac? And what will determine whether Rick Carlisle trusts him every night?

Finally, it's time for perhaps the most fascinating player preview of the entire series: Ivica Zubac.

For the first time, Pacers fans will get to see Zubac share the floor with Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. How does a traditional, physical, screen-setting and rim-running center change Indiana's offense? What can Haliburton unlock in Zubac—and what can Zubac unlock in Haliburton?

The guys dive into his fit, expectations, potential production and why Zubac might be the Pacers' biggest non-health-related X-factor this season.

Four players who could unlock four different elements of this team as Alex and Facci officially wrap up their 2026-27 Pacers Player Preview Series!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are BACK, and we've got some big Pacers news to discuss!

JAMES JOHNSON IS BACK!

After sitting out all of last season, the beloved Pacers veteran is returning to Indiana on an Exhibit 9 deal for training camp.

Alex and Facci discuss why bringing JJ back makes so much sense for this group, what his leadership means inside the Pacers locker room and why getting him around the team for training camp and the preseason could be valuable even if Indiana can't immediately carry him into the regular season.

Because of the Pacers' current salary situation, Johnson can't fit under Indiana's hard cap at the beginning of the season. However, once his veteran minimum becomes prorated enough, the Pacers could potentially bring him back beginning November 5.

So…is this essentially a preview of what's eventually coming?

Then, the guys turn their attention to some movement around the NBA that could have an impact on Indiana.

A former Pacer is on the move after being traded from Atlanta to Charlotte, but the more interesting piece for Pacers fans is Ryan Nembhard potentially hitting the open market.

Yes, Andrew's brother.

Should the Pacers prioritize using their remaining roster flexibility on a proven veteran like Johnson, or should they take a swing on an intriguing young prospect like Nembhard? Alex and Facci debate what makes the most sense for a team trying to contend now while still developing talent for the future.

Finally, the guys dive into a TON of recent Pacers conversation.

They react to Tyrese Haliburton's revealing interview with Boardroom, his one-on-one conversation with Pacers legend Reggie Miller, and some of the recent discussion surrounding Indiana from Brian Windhorst, Bill Simmons and Zach Lowe.

What are people around the NBA saying about the Pacers heading into the season? Are expectations beginning to rise again? And what stood out most from everything Haliburton had to say?

James Johnson is back, another Nembhard could suddenly be available, and the Pacers are becoming a major NBA talking point again.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci continue their eight-part Pacers Player Preview Series, and this episode features three forwards at completely different stages of their NBA careers: Pascal Siakam, Larry Nance Jr. and Jalen Slawson.

The guys begin with Siakam, one of the leaders and most accomplished players on Indiana's roster.

At this stage of his career, what can Pascal actually improve? Alex and Facci discuss what Siakam brings every single night, the importance of his leadership and how his role could evolve with Tyrese Haliburton returning and Ivica Zubac now occupying the middle.

How will the Siakam-Zubac pairing work offensively? Will Pascal have more opportunities with the ball in his hands? And after everything he's already accomplished, what would another step forward actually look like?

Then, it's time to discuss one of Indiana's newest additions: Larry Nance Jr.

The veteran forward/center arrives with plenty of NBA experience and a strong reputation around the league, but what exactly will his role be with the Pacers?

Alex and Facci discuss whether Nance can still be an everyday rotation player, how he fits as a backup forward/center and what they need to see from him to feel confident about his role on a team with championship aspirations.

Finally, the guys turn their attention to Jalen Slawson, who enters the season on a two-way contract with something entirely different to prove.

Slawson has shown flashes, but can he turn those flashes into a legitimate NBA future? How much time will he spend with the Pacers compared to the Boom? What areas of his game need to improve? And how close is he to proving he deserves a standard NBA roster spot?

Three players. Three completely different roles.

An established leader. A respected veteran joining a new team. And a young player fighting to prove he belongs.

Alex and Facci break down what each player brings to the table, where each can improve, what they want to see this season and what success looks like for Pascal Siakam, Larry Nance Jr. and Jalen Slawson.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for Episode 5 of their eight-part Pacers Player Preview Series, and today the focus shifts to Aaron Nesmith and Jarace Walker.

The guys begin with Nesmith, who has developed into one of Indiana's most important two-way players. What does the next step look like for him? Can he continue to provide elite shooting while taking on difficult defensive assignments every night? And with Tyrese Haliburton back and Kelly Oubre Jr. joining the rotation, could Nesmith's role look different this season?

Alex and Facci discuss what they want to see from Nesmith, what would constitute another successful season and make their official stat predictions for Indiana's starting wing.

Then, the conversation shifts to one of the biggest wild cards on the entire roster: Jarace Walker.

Walker enters a pivotal season with plenty still to prove. Where exactly does he fit into Rick Carlisle's rotation? Can he establish himself as the Pacers' primary backup wing? What areas of his game need to improve for him to earn consistent minutes? And just how important is this season when it comes to his long-term future in Indiana?

Alex and Facci discuss the competition for minutes, what a legitimate breakout season could look like for Walker and what they need to see from him to feel confident about his future with the Pacers.

Plus, the guys make their official stat predictions for both players and identify the biggest questions surrounding each of them heading into the season.

Roles. Expectations. Areas for improvement. Stat predictions.

The Pacers Player Preview Series rolls on with Aaron Nesmith and Jarace Walker!

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ESPN's Bobby Marks joins Alex Golden and Mike Facci for a loaded conversation previewing the upcoming NBA season!

There was so much to discuss that the guys couldn't even get to everything on their list—but Bobby delivered plenty of insight on the Pacers, the Eastern Conference, the championship picture and some of the most fascinating teams around the league.

The conversation begins with Indiana and the changing landscape of the East before diving into Atlanta's offseason additions and just how much better the Hawks could be this season. The guys also discuss the Knicks, what losing Mitchell Robinson means for New York and how that could impact the hierarchy of the conference.

From there, Bobby weighs in on Kawhi Leonard returning to Toronto, how long it could take Philadelphia to figure out its new-look lineup and develop chemistry, and whether the Miami Heat should legitimately be viewed as title contenders with their current roster.

Then, it's time to discuss some of the league's biggest question marks.

How bleak is the Clippers' future? What should we make of the Jalen Duren debacle and Detroit's offseason? Did the Pistons do enough to remain a factor in the East?

The guys also head out West, where Oklahoma City and San Antonio enter the season with massive expectations. Bobby shares which teams he believes have the best chance to disrupt an OKC-San Antonio collision course and what could stand in the way of the conference's top contenders.

Finally, the conversation comes back to Indiana.

Where does Bobby Marks see the Pacers finishing in the Eastern Conference? How does he view their roster compared to the other contenders? And which four teams does he have reaching the Eastern and Western Conference Finals?

It's a wide-ranging NBA preview with one of the league's most plugged-in analysts as ESPN's Bobby Marks joins Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back for another episode of the Fever Focus Podcast, and with only four games remaining in the regular season, there is A LOT to watch for as the Indiana Fever prepare for the playoffs.

The guys start the show by celebrating Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston and Stephanie White winning gold with Team USA at the FIBA Women's World Cup. What did the experience mean for Clark and Boston, and what can they take away from playing on the biggest international stage as they return to Indiana?

Then, it's time to dive into the biggest storyline of the final four games: PLAYOFF STANDINGS WATCH.

The Fever and Atlanta Dream enter the final stretch with identical 26-14 records, but Atlanta owns the tiebreaker. That puts enormous pressure on Indiana to finish the season strong if the Fever want to secure home-court advantage in the playoffs.

But it's not as simple as just winning out.

Alex and Casey sift through the different scenarios still in play, what needs to happen for Indiana to move ahead of Atlanta, how much room for error the Fever actually have and just how important home court could be once the postseason begins.

After breaking down the standings, the guys turn their attention specifically to the Fever and what they need to see over these final four games.

Casey unveils his "3 R's" that he'll be monitoring as Indiana transitions from the World Cup break back into regular-season basketball and prepares for what it hopes will be a deep playoff run.

What needs to improve? What needs to carry over? And what could these final four games tell us about how prepared the Fever really are for postseason basketball?

Finally, Alex and Casey preview what's coming next for Fever Focus as the regular season winds down and the playoffs quickly approach.

Four games. Home-court advantage on the line. And everything still to play for.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci continue their Pacers Player Preview Series, and this time the guys turn their attention to two wings with very different expectations heading into the season: Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kobe Brown.

First up is Oubre, one of Indiana's biggest additions of the offseason.

Alex and Facci dive into what Oubre brings to this Pacers roster, where he fits into Rick Carlisle's rotation and why his combination of size, athleticism, defense and scoring could make him such an important piece for a team with championship aspirations.

What should his role look like? How much will Indiana ask him to score? What does he add defensively? And what would a successful first season in a Pacers uniform look like?

The guys lay out their expectations, discuss what they want to see from Oubre and make their official stat predictions for his first year in Indiana.

Then, Alex and Facci shift their attention to Kobe Brown. After showing some intriguing flashes with the Pacers last season, Brown returns on a two-way contract with another opportunity to prove he belongs in Indiana's long-term plans.

What does Brown need to show this season? Is there a path to legitimate NBA minutes on a deep Pacers roster? And what parts of his game could give him a chance to eventually become a regular rotation piece?

To close out the show, Alex and Facci put a bow on the last four players they've previewed—Andrew Nembhard, Ben Sheppard, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kobe Brown—with a round of rapid-fire questions.

The guys make some tough choices, compare the four players, discuss their biggest questions and expectations for the group, and finally hand out an overall letter grade for this collection of Pacers guards and wings.

Another four players are officially in the books as the eight-part Player Preview Series rolls on!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci continue their eight-part Pacers Player Preview Series, and today they turn their attention to Andrew Nembhard and Ben Sheppard—two guards entering very interesting seasons for completely different reasons.

First up is Nembhard.

After taking on significantly more responsibility with Tyrese Haliburton out last season, Nembhard now has to transition back into playing alongside Indiana's star point guard. So, what does his role look like with Haliburton back in the lineup?

Alex and Facci discuss how Nembhard has improved over the last few seasons, what he showed with an expanded role last year and how the Pacers can utilize those improvements without asking him to be the primary ball handler every night.

How frequently should Nembhard run the offense? Can taking some of the playmaking responsibilities off Haliburton actually make Indiana more dangerous? And what should the next step look like for Nembhard on both ends of the floor?

The guys share what they want to see from Drew this season, set expectations for his role and make their official stat predictions.

Then, it's time for Ben Sheppard, who enters arguably the most important season of his young career.

Sheppard is entering the final year of his rookie-scale contract, but with everyone healthy, he could begin the season outside Rick Carlisle's 10-man rotation.

So how does Sheppard force his way back into the mix?

Alex and Facci discuss what Sheppard needs to improve, where his opportunities could come from, what it will take to earn consistent minutes and how his role this season could impact his chances of earning his next NBA contract.

It's another edition of the Pacers Player Preview Series with roles, expectations, goals and stat predictions for Andrew Nembhard and Ben Sheppard.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci continue their eight-part Pacers Player Preview Series, and today the focus shifts to two very different point guards: T.J. McConnell and Braden Smith.

The guys start with McConnell as he enters his 12th NBA season and eighth year with the Indiana Pacers. At 34 years old, T.J. is officially one of the elder statesmen of this roster—but after everything he's meant to Indiana over the last several seasons, what should expectations look like this year?

Alex and Facci discuss McConnell's role behind Tyrese Haliburton, how many minutes he should play on a nightly basis, whether his responsibilities could change with Haliburton returning and what the Pacers need from their veteran point guard to make another deep postseason run.

They also discuss what they specifically want to see from T.J. this season and make their official stat predictions for one of the most important players on Indiana's second unit.

Then, the guys turn their attention to Braden Smith.

After joining the Pacers on a two-way contract, what should Year 1 look like for the former Purdue point guard? Alex and Facci discuss where Smith fits into Indiana's crowded guard rotation, how much NBA playing time he could realistically receive and what areas of his game will determine whether he can eventually become a legitimate rotation player.

What does Smith need to prove as a rookie? Could he eventually push his way into Rick Carlisle's rotation? And what would constitute a successful first season for the young point guard?

Roles, expectations, goals and stat predictions for T.J. McConnell and Braden Smith as the Pacers Player Preview Series rolls on!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back, and today they're kicking off a brand-new eight-part Player Preview Series on Setting The Pace!

Over the next eight episodes, Alex and Facci will work their way through the Pacers roster, breaking down each player's role, expectations and goals for the upcoming season while also making their official stat predictions.

First up: Tyrese Haliburton and Quenton Jackson.

The guys start with Haliburton as he prepares to make his long-awaited return to the court. What are realistic expectations for Tyrese after missing all of last season? How quickly can he return to the player Pacers fans remember? And should his role look any different after everything Indiana learned while playing without him?

Alex and Facci discuss what they want to see from Haliburton, what a successful season would look like, where he can continue to grow and make their official predictions for his points, assists, rebounds, shooting percentages and more.

Then, the attention turns to Quenton Jackson.

After earning a standard NBA contract last season and having his deal become fully guaranteed this summer, where does Jackson fit into a crowded Pacers backcourt?

The guys discuss how big of a role Q could realistically have, where his minutes could come from, what he needs to show to earn Rick Carlisle's trust and what would constitute a successful season for the 28-year-old guard.

Plus, Alex and Facci make their official stat predictions for Jackson and discuss what they most want to see from him this season.

Roles. Expectations. Goals. Stat predictions.

The eight-part Pacers Player Preview Series officially begins with Tyrese Haliburton and Quenton Jackson!

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Casey is joined by John Nolan, radio voice of the Indiana Fever, for a wide-ranging conversation on the team, the league, and everything surrounding one of the most interesting stretches of the season.

Topics include:

The absurdity of online Fever discourse and how hard it has become to talk about the actual basketball What Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston can gain from their Team USA experience Caitlin and Kelsey Mitchell continuing to stack up record-breaking performances Aliyah Boston’s steady presence and why her consistency matters so much Makayla Timpson’s rise and how quickly she has carved out a role Why Ty Harris feels like the perfect veteran addition for this Fever team Cathy Engelbert’s announcement and the bigger questions facing the WNBA What qualities the next commissioner needs to have to lead the league forward A loaded conversation with John Nolan on the Fever’s present, their future, and where the league goes from here.

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Alex Golden is joined by Ryan Knight of The Pacers Post Up for an episode dedicated to the players Pacers fans love to hate.

Forget rival teams. Today, we're talking about individual players who have become Public Enemy No. 1 in Indiana.

Alex and Ryan reveal their Top 5 biggest player rivals of the current iteration of the Indiana Pacers, discussing how each player earned a spot on the list and why the bad blood still exists today.

Whether it was a heated playoff series, trash talk, physical play, controversial moments or simply getting under the skin of Pacers players and fans, each of these five has developed a unique relationship with Indiana—and not exactly a friendly one.

But how relevant are some of these rivalries today?

Alex and Ryan discuss which beefs are still alive and well, which have started to cool off and which could become even more heated during the 2026-27 season as Indiana looks to make another run through the Eastern Conference.

The guys also look at these rivalries from both perspectives. Which players do Pacers fans despise the most? Which opponents seem to have legitimate beef with Indiana's players? And who is the one player that deserves to be crowned the Pacers' ultimate Public Enemy No. 1?

It's time to embrace the hate.

No friends. No love lost. Just the five biggest villains of the current Pacers era and why they've earned a permanent spot on Indiana's enemies list.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back, and today's episode starts with a familiar face having some trouble finding a new home.

The latest reporting indicates that the Milwaukee Bucks have been unable to find a trade partner for Myles Turner, just one year after signing the former Pacers center to a four-year, $107 million contract.

So…grass isn't always greener, is it?

Alex and Facci revisit Turner's departure from Indiana and discuss why his current situation only reinforces the Pacers' decision to play hardball during contract negotiations. Was Indiana right to have reservations about paying Turner that type of money? How much of his success with the Pacers was enhanced by playing alongside an elite point guard in Tyrese Haliburton? And what does his current trade market say about the value of his contract around the league?

The guys also look back at Milwaukee's decision to aggressively pursue Turner and how poorly that gamble has aged after just one season.

From there, the conversation shifts back to Indiana and a bigger offseason question: Did the Pacers do enough in free agency?

Alex and Facci evaluate Indiana's additions, how the new pieces fit around the returning core and whether the front office did enough to position this roster for another run at the top of the Eastern Conference.

If the Pacers wanted to be more aggressive, what other moves were realistically available? Were there free agents Indiana should have pursued instead? Could they have spent their money differently? Or did the front office correctly prioritize fit, flexibility and continuity over making a splashier move?

Finally, the guys wrap up the show with Ben Simmons officially returning to the NBA after sitting out last season. What does Simmons have left, what should expectations look like for the former All-Star and can he resurrect his career in Sacramento?

Myles Turner's unwanted contract, Milwaukee's failed gamble, the Pacers' free-agency decisions and the return of Ben Simmons—a loaded episode of Setting The Pace!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back, and there is A LOT to discuss after the NBA dropped the hammer on the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Clippers were found to have violated the NBA's salary-cap circumvention rules involving Kawhi Leonard, resulting in massive penalties—including the loss of five future first-round picks.

And somehow, the Indiana Pacers are directly involved in the fallout.

One of the selections Los Angeles is losing is the Pacers' unprotected 2029 first-round pick, which Indiana originally sent to the Clippers as part of the trade for Ivica Zubac.

So Alex and Facci ask the obvious question: Should the Pacers get their pick back?

The guys debate whether Indiana should benefit from the Clippers' wrongdoing, why the NBA decided to eliminate the pick instead of returning it to the Pacers and whether losing one of the major assets from the deal changes how we should evaluate the Zubac trade from Los Angeles' perspective.

Then, Alex and Facci go down the Kawhi Leonard rabbit hole and look at the incredible ripple effects his career decisions have had on the Pacers.

From Kawhi leaving the Toronto Raptors for Los Angeles to everything that followed with the Clippers, the guys connect the dots on how decisions made years ago ultimately helped shape the Pacers roster we see today.

It's a wild look at NBA history, trades, draft picks and how one superstar's decision can create ripple effects across the league for years.

Should Indiana get its 2029 first-round pick back? Does this make the Zubac trade look even better for the Pacers? And just how much has Kawhi Leonard's Clippers era indirectly impacted Indiana?

A fun, loaded episode centered around all of the Kawhi drama in Los Angeles—and the unexpected Pacers connection to it all.

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Cathy Engelbert is stepping down as WNBA commissioner, and Casey reacts to the breaking news on Fever Focus.

This episode takes a first look at Engelbert’s tenure, the timing of the announcement, and what her exit could mean for the league moving forward. There is credit to give for the WNBA’s growth, but also plenty of fair questions about how the league has handled its biggest moments, its biggest stars, and the increased spotlight around the game.

Topics include:

• Engelbert’s retirement announcement
• The growth of the WNBA during her time as commissioner
• Why business success does not erase league-wide frustrations
• The public pressure that came with the Caitlin Clark era
• Ongoing questions about officiating, messaging, and player relations
• What the next commissioner will be walking into
• Why this moment feels like a turning point for the league

Casey breaks it all down on a solo edition of Fever Focus.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for Part 3 of the September Mailbag, wrapping up this three-part series with questions about trades, Jarace Walker, the future of the Pacers' core, Rick Carlisle and some fun debates to close out the show!

The guys start by revisiting Bennedict Mathurin's departure. After Mathurin signed with New Orleans for $8 million per season, should the Pacers have any regrets about how everything played out? If Indiana knew a year ago that Mathurin could be retained at that price, would things have gone differently? And when comparing him to Kelly Oubre Jr., who is ultimately the better fit for this Pacers roster?

From there, Alex and Facci look at the financial future of the team. As this roster becomes more expensive, could players like Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, T.J. McConnell or Obi Toppin eventually take more team-friendly deals to help keep the core together?

That leads directly into some Trey Murphy III trade talk. If Murphy becomes available, what type of package would Alex and Facci realistically be willing to give up to bring him to Indiana?

Then, it's time for a lengthy Jarace Walker discussion. How big of a leap can he make this season after the way he finished last year? Will he finally secure consistent rotation minutes? And perhaps most importantly, what are the odds Jarace is still on the Pacers after the trade deadline?

The guys also discuss whether Dalton Knecht could make sense as a potential target and look further into the future with a question about Rick Carlisle. If Indiana doesn't win a championship during this current two-year window, could Rick remain the Pacers' head coach beyond it?

Finally, the mailbag gets weird—in the best way.

Which Pacers jersey are Alex and Facci most excited to see this season? Who wins a game to 7 between Alex and Facci with the fate of the universe on the line? And who are the three greatest dunkers in Pacers history?

Mathurin regrets, Trey Murphy trade packages, Jarace Walker's future, Rick Carlisle's timeline and some ridiculous debates to finish things off—a fun conclusion to the September Mailbag!

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back for another episode of Fever Focus, and with the WNBA hitting pause, two of Indiana's biggest stars are taking their talents to the international stage!

Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston are representing Team USA at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, giving the Fever's young duo an opportunity to compete alongside—and learn from—some of the best players in the world.

Alex and Casey discuss what they're most excited to see from Clark and Boston with Team USA, what roles they could play and how spending time around so many accomplished players could help both of them grow before returning to Indiana for the final stretch of the season.

But the World Cup also creates one of the strangest wrinkles of the WNBA season: a three-week stoppage right before the playoffs.

Alex and Casey have a lengthy debate about the break, whether it's good for the league and what changes could be made in the future to prevent such a long interruption in the middle of a season that's building toward its biggest games.

While Clark and Boston are competing overseas, Kelsey Mitchell gets three valuable weeks away from game action. Could the extended rest be exactly what Indiana's leading scorer needs before the Fever make their playoff push?

The guys also react to WNBA legend Diana Taurasi's comments about Clark and Mitchell leading Indiana in the postseason and discuss what it will take for the Fever's dynamic backcourt to deliver when the games matter most.

Finally, Alex and Casey look at the opportunity in front of Clark and Boston beyond simply winning a gold medal. What can they learn from practicing, traveling and competing alongside some of the greatest players in women's basketball? And could those lessons ultimately make the Fever even more dangerous when they return?

Team USA, the WNBA's lengthy World Cup break, some much-needed rest for Kelsey Mitchell and plenty of discussion about what this all means for the Fever's playoff hopes!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for Part 2 of the September Mailbag, and today's questions center around one big theme: How good can this Indiana Pacers team actually be?

The guys start by discussing what Indiana learned from last season and how those lessons could translate now that Tyrese Haliburton is back. After everything this group experienced without its star point guard, could the adversity ultimately make the Pacers better equipped for another championship run?

Then comes one of the biggest questions of the entire mailbag: What happens if Indiana is rolling at the trade deadline and Trey Murphy III becomes available?

If the Pacers already look like a legitimate championship contender, do you risk disrupting a rotation that's working to add another high-level talent? Alex and Facci discuss the balance between upgrading the roster and protecting chemistry, including the lessons that can be learned from the Danny Granger-Evan Turner trade.

Would Murphy raise Indiana's long-term ceiling enough to justify shaking things up? Or, at some point, is trusting the better team more important than acquiring the better individual player?

From there, the guys dive deep into Ivica Zubac. How different will Indiana look going from Myles Turner's style of play to Big Zu? How will Zubac fit alongside Haliburton? And just how concerned should Pacers fans be about spacing with a traditional center occupying the paint?

The defensive conversation continues with Andrew Nembhard. After Nembhard was left outside Game Theory's Top 25 defenders and honorable mentions, Alex and Facci discuss where they believe he belongs among the NBA's best defenders.

Finally, could this Pacers roster be just as successful playing for a different coach and in a different system? Or is Rick Carlisle's fast-paced style so ingrained in the identity of this group that changing it would fundamentally alter what makes Indiana special?

Championship expectations, trade-deadline dilemmas, Zubac vs. Myles, Nembhard's defense and Rick Carlisle's system—a loaded Part 2 of the September Mailbag!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are answering YOUR questions for the September Mailbag, kicking off Part 1 of a three-part series!

Today's episode is all about rotation, lineups and roster fit as the guys dive into some of the biggest questions surrounding Rick Carlisle's options heading into the season.

What is the Pacers' best five-man lineup, and how does it stack up against the best lineups around the NBA? How will Carlisle divide the wing minutes between Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, Kelly Oubre Jr., Jarace Walker and Ben Sheppard? Could the numbers game ultimately force either Jarace or Sheppard out of the regular rotation?

A large portion of the conversation centers around Kelly Oubre Jr. and Bennedict Mathurin. After Mathurin signed a deal similar in value to Oubre's, which player would the guys rather have coming off Indiana's bench? Is Mathurin's scoring ability more valuable to the second unit, or does Oubre's defense, versatility and overall fit make him the better option for this Pacers roster?

Alex and Facci also predict what kind of production Oubre could provide and whether he can match—or potentially exceed—what Mathurin brought to Indiana.

Then, the guys discuss the backup point guard situation. Is it actually a weakness with T.J. McConnell, Braden Smith, Quenton Jackson and Andrew Nembhard all capable of handling some of those responsibilities? Or should backup center be the position Indiana prioritizes upgrading at the trade deadline?

Plus, who leads the Pacers' bench in scoring this season? And what will Bennedict Mathurin's stat line look like when he faces Indiana on opening night?

A loaded Part 1 of the September Mailbag with plenty of rotation debates, lineup discussion and thoughts on how all the pieces of this Pacers roster will fit together.

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Alex Golden is joined by Derek Schultz for a lengthy, loaded conversation about the Indiana Pacers as the start of the 2026-27 season continues to draw closer.

A good portion of today's show centers around Tyrese Haliburton and one of the biggest questions facing the Pacers: What are realistic expectations for Hali after missing 16 months of NBA basketball?

Alex and Derek discuss what success should look like for Haliburton this season, how patient fans need to be as he works his way back into form and what Indiana truly needs from its star point guard to compete at the highest level.

Then, the guys dive into Bennedict Mathurin signing with the New Orleans Pelicans. At the price Mathurin ultimately signed for, should the Pacers have any regrets about moving on? Would his scoring have been valuable on this current roster, or was Indiana right to prioritize other players and roster needs?

From there, Alex and Derek zoom out and look at the rest of the Eastern Conference. Which teams pose the biggest threat to Indiana? Where do the Pacers stack up against the conference's best, and which potential matchups should concern them the most?

Finally, the guys look WAY into the future with a fun exercise: Which current Pacers will still be on the roster five seasons from now?

Who is essentially untouchable? Which young players could become long-term pieces? And which familiar faces might be gone as Indiana's roster continues to evolve?

Haliburton expectations, Mathurin's departure, Eastern Conference threats and a look five years into the Pacers' future—a loaded episode with Derek Schultz!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are looking into the future and handing out some hardware on today's episode of Setting The Pace!

The guys go through the NBA's major individual awards and look at which Pacers are actually appearing on the early betting odds lists—and which Indiana players are surprisingly nowhere to be found.

For each award, Alex and Facci discuss which Pacer has the best chance of entering the conversation and what would need to happen this season for them to become a legitimate contender.

But they don't stop with the NBA awards.

The guys then turn the exercise into a Pacers-only awards show, predicting who will be Indiana's MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, Sixth Man of the Year and more!

Which Pacer is poised to make the biggest leap? Who will be the most impactful player off the bench? Which player becomes Indiana's defensive anchor? And who ultimately takes home Pacers MVP?

A fun offseason exercise looking at the betting markets, projecting individual performances and making predictions for which Pacers will take home the hardware at the end of the 2026-27 season.

Alex Golden and Mike Facci are looking into the future and handing out some hardware on today's episode of Setting The Pace!

The guys go through the NBA's major individual awards and look at which Pacers are actually appearing on the early betting odds lists—and which Indiana players are surprisingly nowhere to be found.

For each award, Alex and Facci discuss which Pacer has the best chance of entering the conversation and what would need to happen this season for them to become a legitimate contender.

But they don't stop with the NBA awards.

The guys then turn the exercise into a Pacers-only awards show, predicting who will be Indiana's MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, Sixth Man of the Year and more!

Which Pacer is poised to make the biggest leap? Who will be the most impactful player off the bench? Which player becomes Indiana's defensive anchor? And who ultimately takes home Pacers MVP?

A fun offseason exercise looking at the betting markets, projecting individual performances and making predictions for which Pacers will take home the hardware at the end of the 2026-27 season.

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It's finally time!

Alex Golden and Mike Facci reveal their 2026-27 Eastern Conference standings predictions, ranking all 15 teams from top to bottom and explaining exactly why they have each team finishing where they do.

The guys go team-by-team through a loaded East, discussing the contenders they believe can make a run at the No. 1 seed, which teams could surprise people, who might take a step backward and where the Indiana Pacers belong in the mix.

How much will Indiana improve with Tyrese Haliburton back? Where do the Pacers stack up against the other contenders? Which teams are Alex and Facci higher or lower on than the consensus? And which spots were the toughest to predict?

But the conversation doesn't end once the standings are set.

After revealing their 1-15 rankings, Alex and Facci use their predicted standings to create the potential first-round playoff matchups. The guys go series-by-series before focusing on the Pacers' projected opponent and debating whether they like Indiana's draw.

Would this be an ideal path for the Pacers? Which potential matchup would they rather avoid? And based on these standings, what could Indiana's path through the Eastern Conference look like?

A fun episode discussing every team in the East, making predictions and looking ahead to what could be a fascinating playoff picture.

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back for a loaded episode of Setting The Pace, featuring a special guest appearance from Bob Kravitz!

Before Bob joins the show, Alex announces the winner of the two free tickets to the Pacers-Mavericks game on opening night!

Then, Alex and Facci dive into the Pacers' new television deal with DAZN and what it means for fans watching the team this season. The guys also discuss the NBA's conversations with YouTube about potentially becoming the local broadcasting partner for all 30 teams beginning in 2027-28 and what that could mean for the future of watching NBA basketball.

Then, Bob Kravitz joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation about the Pacers.

Bob shares his thoughts on Indiana's offseason, what he expects from this group next season and where he believes the Pacers stack up in a loaded Eastern Conference.

The guys also have an extensive conversation about T.J. McConnell. How much longer can T.J. continue playing at this level? What should Pacers fans expect from him over the next two seasons? And once his playing career comes to an end, could McConnell remain connected to the organization in a different role?

Bob also shares which Pacers player he believes could make the biggest jump next season and what that development could mean for Indiana's ceiling.

To close out the show, the conversation shifts to the Indiana Fever before Bob gives his thoughts on where the Pacers ultimately finish in the Eastern Conference.

Ticket giveaway results, broadcasting news, Pacers expectations, T.J.'s future, breakout candidates, Fever talk and Eastern Conference predictions—a loaded episode with Bob Kravitz!

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back with another episode of Fever Focus, breaking down the Indiana Fever’s win over the Chicago Sky and everything that stood out from one of Indiana’s stronger team performances.

Topics include:

• Caitlin Clark’s all-around game and how she controlled the flow offensively
• Kelsey Mitchell staying hot and continuing to give Indiana a reliable scoring punch
• The Fever looking a little tired, but still finding enough energy to take care of business
• Mercedes Russell giving Indiana exactly what it needed in her role
• KK’s continued growth and why her confidence is starting to show
• Lexie Hull’s breakout game and the impact she made on both ends
• A brief look at the Enes Kanter courtside incident
• Why the Caitlin Clark/Kelsey Mitchell partnership is starting to feel like another beloved Indiana sports duo

Another packed episode of Fever Focus as Alex and Casey break down the win, the rotation, the vibes, and why this Fever team keeps giving fans more reasons to believe.

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back for a loaded episode of Fever Focus after a busy stretch of Indiana Fever basketball!

Since the guys last recorded, the Fever have played four games and gone 3-1, giving Alex and Casey plenty to discuss. They go game-by-game through the stretch, breaking down how Indiana performed, which players stepped up and the biggest storylines to emerge as the Fever continue their five-game road trip with a trip to New York on Sunday.

Kelsey Mitchell continues to score at an incredible level and has been one of the driving forces behind Indiana's recent success. The guys discuss her offensive explosion, why she's been so difficult for opponents to contain and just how impressive her current stretch has been.

They also dive into Makayla Timpson, who continues to show why she belongs in the Fever's starting lineup. What has Timpson added to the starting five, and how has her emergence changed Indiana's frontcourt?

Then there's Caitlin Clark, who had some terrific moments but also experienced some up-and-down performances over the four-game stretch. Alex and Casey evaluate what they've seen from Clark, where she's thriving and where things haven't been quite as consistent.

The guys also discuss Aliyah Boston's steady production, the inconsistent play from Indiana's bench, which role players stepped up when the Fever needed them most and what Indiana needs to clean up as the road trip continues.

Four games. Three wins. Plenty of storylines.

Alex and Casey break it all down before looking ahead to Sunday's showdown in New York!

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Alex Golden and Mike Facci are going through the entire Indiana Pacers schedule and making a prediction for every single game!

Win or loss. All 82 games.

The guys work their way through the schedule, discussing the toughest stretches, favorable runs, back-to-backs, national television games and the biggest matchups of the season. Which opponents present the biggest problems for Indiana? Where could the Pacers potentially stumble? And which stretches of the schedule could allow them to pile up wins?

Alex and Facci also highlight the games they're most excited about, the opponents they're most interested in seeing Indiana face and some of the obstacles that could make this schedule more challenging than it initially appears.

Then, after predicting all 82 games, the guys reveal their final Pacers record predictions and explain why they feel so strongly about where Indiana will finish.

Will Alex and Facci end up in the same neighborhood, or will their predictions look completely different?

It's a fun way to break down the entire schedule while setting expectations for the upcoming season. Grab the schedule, follow along and see where you agree—or completely disagree—with the guys!

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Alex Golden and Michael Facci are BACK after both guys enjoyed a little vacation time, and there is plenty of Pacers news to catch up on!

The guys start with Braden Smith officially signing a two-way deal with the Indiana Pacers. After months of wondering what Indiana's plan was for the Purdue point guard, we finally have our answer.

Alex and Facci discuss why the Pacers ultimately went this direction with Smith and push back against some of the criticism surrounding Indiana's decision to trade for him in the second round of the NBA Draft. What does Smith need to show this season, and why does a two-way deal make sense for where he is at in his development?

The move comes after Friday's news that Ethan Thompson is heading overseas, opening the door for Indiana to use its final two-way spot on Smith.

Then, the conversation shifts to the Pacers' decision to keep the 15th spot on the standard roster open. Alex and Facci explain why maintaining that flexibility could be important and how Indiana could take advantage of the opening later in the season.

That leads to a fun look at some recognizable names who could eventually make sense for the Pacers. Would Ben Simmons be worth taking a chance on? Could a reunion with Victor Oladipo make any sense? What about bringing Bruce Brown back to Indiana?

Braden Smith is officially a Pacer, Indiana still has some roster flexibility, and Alex and Facci have plenty to discuss as Setting The Pace returns!

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Alex Golden is joined by longtime Pacers' fan Michael—with a brief appearance from his lovely girlfriend, Grace—for a fun conversation about all things Indiana Pacers!

Michael shares his thoughts on the Pacers' offseason moves and his expectations for the upcoming season, including what he likes about the roster and where he still has concerns.

He also tells Alex about his experience meeting Tyrese Haliburton at Fanatics Fest, what that moment was like and why Tyrese has become such a special player for Pacers fans.

Of course, no conversation with Michael would be complete without discussing his love for Micah Potter! The guy's revisit Indiana's decision to move on from Potter and what Michael thinks about the direction the Pacers took with their frontcourt.

From there, Alex and Michael get into the basketball. Which teams in the Eastern Conference present the toughest matchups for Indiana? What are the Pacers' biggest strengths and weaknesses? And most importantly, how much does the addition of Ivica Zubac help address some of the issues that have hurt Indiana in the past?

Michael also shares what he's most excited to see this season and why expectations are so high for this Pacers team.

A fun, fan-driven episode of Setting the Pace featuring Pacers talk, plenty of laughs, Michael's return to the podcast and a special cameo from Grace!

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Alex Golden is joined by Kyle Taylor of iPacers for a different kind of offseason episode of Setting The Pace. Instead of tackling the biggest storylines surrounding the Indiana Pacers, the guys get in the weeds and discuss some of the more niche questions that could have a major impact on how this team plays next season.

The conversation starts with Tyrese Haliburton and Ivica Zubac. With Zubac bringing a much different skill set to the center position, could we see Tyrese spend more time playing off the ball to help Indiana's spacing? How will the Pacers maximize Zubac offensively without taking away from what makes Haliburton and the rest of the offense so dangerous?

Then the guys flip to the defensive side of that pairing. What happens when teams put Haliburton and Big Zu into the pick-and-roll? Alex and Kyle discuss the different coverages Indiana could throw at opponents, how teams may try to attack that combination and what adjustments Rick Carlisle could have up his sleeve.

But the niche questions don't stop there.

Will the Pacers continue to full-court press as frequently as they have in the past? Who will opposing teams target more defensively: Haliburton or Jarace Walker? And in one of the most interesting rotation battles heading into training camp, who finishes the season with more minutes: Ben Sheppard or Jarace Walker?

It's a basketball-heavy conversation that goes deep into the details of how this Pacers team could look different next season. If you enjoy X's and O's, rotation debates and questions that don't always get discussed during the offseason, this episode is for you.

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Alex Golden and Casey Johnson are back for another loaded episode of Fever Focus, and there is A LOT to discuss after an eventful stretch for the Indiana Fever.

The guys start with Mikayla Timpson moving into the starting lineup at the four and what the change could mean for Indiana moving forward. Is Timpson simply the perfect answer for this specific Fever roster, or are we watching her develop into a legitimate long-term starter in the WNBA?

Then, Alex and Casey break down Indiana's impressive performance against the New York Liberty. Kelsey Mitchell continues to look unstoppable, Caitlin Clark is finding new ways to thrive alongside her, and the chemistry between the two stars continues to reach another level. They also dive into Aliyah Boston's evolving three-point shot and why it has the potential to become an elite weapon for Indiana's offense.

From there, it's time to unpack all of the shenanigans from Saturday's game against the Chicago Sky. The guys discuss the backlash Stephanie White received afterward, how she responded before the Fever's game against New York and Caitlin Clark voicing her frustration with the fans who booed the team. Clark made it clear how united this group remains and that, after everything they've been through together, they weren't going to let the outside noise impact them.

Finally, Alex and Casey return to the Timpson discussion and zoom out on the Fever's recent play. Indiana went 8-3 over its last 11 games, with its only three losses coming against the league's top three seeds. Is this stretch evidence that the Fever are beginning to find their identity at exactly the right time?

A loaded Fever Focus featuring lineup changes, the Big 3 clicking, Steph White's response to the criticism, Caitlin Clark's message to the fans and a bigger picture look at just how well Indiana is playing.

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Alex Golden is joined by Tyler Smith of Indy Sports Legends and Pacers on SI for a trip through Indiana Pacers history as the guys attempt to answer a difficult question: Who are the 10 greatest Pacers of the NBA era?

Alex and Tyler build their Top 10 lists and debate how to weigh longevity, individual accomplishments, playoff success, peak performance and overall impact on the franchise.

One of the biggest debates centers around Tyrese Haliburton. After helping lead Indiana to an NBA Finals appearance, has Haliburton already done enough to surpass some of the franchise's longest-tenured stars? Where does he belong among the greatest players to ever wear a Pacers uniform?

Then there's Pascal Siakam. His Pacers tenure has been much shorter, but his impact on the franchise has been undeniable. Has he accomplished enough in Indiana to crack the Top 10, or does longevity keep him on the outside looking in?

To close out the show, Alex and Tyler reveal their Honorable Mentions, highlighting the players who just missed the cut and debating which names were the toughest to leave outside the Top 10.

A fun historical exercise filled with debates, difficult decisions and plenty of appreciation for some of the greatest players to ever wear the Blue and Gold.

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If you want to watch the episode on YouTube, be sure to check it out on the Pacers Beyond the Buzzer YouTube page and subscribe to their channel! Pacers Beyond The Buzzer - YouTube

Alex Golden joins Jake Riley on Pacers Beyond the Buzzer for a special crossover episode that goes 100 minutes and covers just about everything surrounding the Indiana Pacers.

The guys start by taking a trip down memory lane as Alex shares how Setting the Pace began eight years ago, how the podcast has evolved and some of the memorable interactions—both good and bad—he's had with Pacers players and coaches since entering the media space.

Then, it's time to talk Trey Murphy III.

The Trey Murphy-to-Indiana rumors are swirling once again after Murphy attended Tyrese Haliburton's wedding, with a video surfacing of the two dancing together. Does any of it actually mean something? Alex and Jake discuss why Pacers fans remain fascinated by Murphy, what it would realistically take to acquire him, and the complicated logistics Indiana would have to navigate to make a trade work.

From there, the guys dive deep into the current Pacers roster. Which players are the most likely to receive contract extensions? Who is the best bet to break out this season—and who is the least likely? This leads to an extensive conversation about Andrew Nembhard, Jarace Walker and what could be next for both players.

Alex and Jake also go around the Eastern Conference, taking an in-depth look at Indiana's competition and debating exactly where the Pacers belong in the hierarchy of the East heading into the season.

To close out the show, things lighten up as Alex and Jake share some of the latest trends they've been enjoying before giving a special shoutout to Ripple Bagel & Deli, home of the Setting the Pace Sandwich, for hooking the guys up with lunch—and a big thank you to owner Todd!

Trey Murphy rumors, Pacers stories, breakout candidates, contract extensions, Eastern Conference rankings and plenty of fun along the way.

It's a loaded 100-minute Pacers crossover. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

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Tonight, heartbreak ensues on the Fever Focus Podcast as Alex and Casey recount a game that had everything.

There was a lost 20 point lead, a comeback, overtime, a game-tying buzzer beater, a game-WINNING buzzer beater, and everything but a win.

In the immediate aftermath, the guys recap exactly how and why this game fell apart. Topics of discussion are what parts of the Fever collapse were avoidable, what were mental, what came down to basketball, and what was a healthy dose of pure bad luck.

Discussion centers around the up and down play of Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell as a focal point of the offense, Aliyah Boston continuing to produce against A'ja Wilson, Monique Billings holding her own on defense against the reigning MVP, and how, sometimes, you just have to tip your cap.

Can you live with this loss? Is it time to worry? What are the reasons this game just didn't go the way of the Fever? All this and more on this episode of Fever Focus!

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Alex Golden is joined by D Cot of the Game Time Network and Cot's Corner for his first appearance on Setting The Pace, and the conversation centers around what many believe is the Indiana Pacers' greatest strength: their backcourt.

The guys take a deep dive into Andrew Nembhard's development, discussing why he's the perfect complement to Tyrese Haliburton, the strides he made as a primary playmaker last season, what to expect from him moving forward and how important it is for the Pacers to keep him as a foundational piece of their core.

The conversation then shifts to Tyrese Haliburton's journey back to full strength. Alex and D Cot discuss the physical and mental challenges Haliburton has overcome, including battling shingles, rehabbing his Achilles injury and spending 16 months away from NBA game action. They also discuss his added muscle, expectations for the upcoming season and why a fully healthy Haliburton could elevate Indiana to another level.

Additional topics include:

• Why the Haliburton-Nembhard pairing works so well
• Nembhard's long-term value to the Pacers
• Tyrese's growth as a leader on and off the court
• Expectations for the Pacers' backcourt this season
• Other key storylines surrounding the roster entering training camp

It's a terrific first appearance from D Cot and a basketball-heavy conversation focused on two of the most important players in the Pacers' championship pursuit.

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Alex Golden is joined by Brandt McCoskey of Pacers Daily on Fan Arch for another Pacers crossover episode, and this one centers around one important question:

What could keep the Indiana Pacers from winning an NBA championship?

Alex and Brandt each share the three biggest factors they believe could derail Indiana's title hopes, discussing everything from roster construction and player development to health, depth and the ever-improving Eastern Conference.

After breaking down those concerns, the conversation shifts to the conference as a whole. Where do the Pacers stack up against the rest of the East? Brandt shares his current Eastern Conference rankings, explains which teams concern him the most and why he believes Indiana belongs where it does.

Topics include:

• The three biggest threats to the Pacers' championship hopes
• Which concern is the most significant
• Areas where Indiana must improve this season
• Brandt's Eastern Conference power rankings
• Which teams pose the biggest challenge to the Pacers
• Why Indiana can still be one of the NBA's elite teams
• Expectations heading into the 2026-27 season

Then, in Segment 2, Alex goes solo for a unique offseason exercise inspired by John Mayer's iconic 2006 album, Continuum. Alex matches every song on the album to a current Pacers player, explaining why each track best represents that player's personality, journey or style of play. Music from each song is included throughout the segment, making for a fun blend of basketball and music that longtime Pacers fans and John Mayer fans alike can enjoy.

It's another fun crossover episode featuring thoughtful discussion on the Pacers' title aspirations, followed by one of the most creative offseason segments you'll hear as Alex puts a musical twist on the Indiana Pacers roster.

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