Vigilant Sports Pacers Podcast

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss the Pacers’ 2022-23 season schedule being out — four preseason games and another 82-game slate. Then, I’ll get into the team re-upping with Bally Sports and how it directly affects you — the fans. Among the items discussed on this episode: Opening the season Oct. 19, home for their first three games. How many fans will be seeing improvements to The Fieldhouse for the first time. Four exhibition games scheduled, including a home-and-home against the Knicks. Key home opponents to mark down. (13:45) Bally Sports remaining the local TV home of the team. (15:25) Reporting on the announcers being sent on the road again. (17:50) A new option, Bally Sports+, for those on streaming services or do not subscribe to a cable package. (20:02) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

These are the conversations I love having. It’s why I launched the podcast in the first place back in 2015. To peel back the curtain and introduce you to members of the team behind the team. On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m sitting down with Tyler Marsh. He’s coached at all levels, most recently on staff with the Pacers the past two seasons and is now working with Becky Hammon and the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA. Among the items discussed on this episode: His whirlwind year — finishing the season with the Pacers, joining the Aces and expecting his first child in Sept. Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek, a close friend of Becky Hammon’s, connecting Marsh and then attending the first week of training camp. (5:48) On two unique seasons with the Pacers and growing up a fan of the team. (8:20) Getting paired with players for workouts, pre-game warmups. (14:20) His role with the Aces and taking on more responsibilities. (17:24) How this past weekend was his first visit to historic Hinkle Fiel

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m back from NBA Summer League and will go through my experience out in Las Vegas and how the Pacers did. Then discuss the Pacers doing something they’ve never done before. That’s offering restricted free agent Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns. And while they eventually lost out on him, I think they’ve made progress from where they were one year ago. Among the items discussed on this episode: Why summer league is my favorite NBA event. Chris Duarte played in one game and is still bothered by a toe injury. (5:15) Ronald Nored running the Summer Pacers. (7:30) Takeaways from the games. (9:00) NBA awarding championship rings now for SL. (15:00) Aaron Nesmith joining the team — and why the delay. (18:45) The pursuit of Deandre Ayton. (24:00) Waiving four players prior to the offer sheet. (34:30) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll discuss Jalen Smith staying with the Pacers after being considered a long shot to re-sign, where they stand with free agency, several former Pacers landed deals elsewhere — and more. Among the items discussed on this episode: What enticed Jalen to remain with the Pacers. (3:00) The exact terms of his deal. End of NBA moratorium — but they wait to sign in front of an audience. (6:45) Makeup of the roster right now, the latest on Myles Turner. (11:45) Deandre Ayton? (14:15) T.J. Warren and Edmond Sumner off to Brooklyn. (18:00) Thoughts on the summer league squad. (20:30) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I recapped my time at the NBA Draft, then discussed free agency. The Pacers were quiet on Day 1, then checked off a few key items. Among them, dealing Malcolm Brogdon to the Boston Celtics — so later, I’m be joined by Jared Weiss of The Athletic in Boston to discuss. Among the items discussed on this episode: My experience in New York for the NBA Draft. Two things that were different at the draft v TV. How Bennedict Mathurin was the Pacers’ guy all along. Characteristics in players they are after. Why Tyrese Haliburton was with Mathurin before the draft. An elaborate introduction for the three draft picks… (14:45) Free agency/Brogdon trade (19:40) Jalen Smith … back!? Wow. (26:50) What’s up with T.J. Warren? (29:40) Updates on Edmond Sumner, Lance Stephenson (31:00) What’s left in free agency — Myles Turner? DeAndre Ayton? (35:20) Jared Weiss on Brogdon’s change in attitude, plus how the five Celtics players fit with the Pacers should t

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, it’s time to talk about the NBA Draft. The Pacers have three picks, including their highest selection since 1988. And they have the potential to add another lottery selection. Among the items discussed on this episode: Warriors winning their fourth title in eight years; and there are several staff members with Pacers/Indiana connections. Rick Carlisle’s first draft fully involved. He was hired one year ago Friday. What I see and enjoy watching most at pre-draft workouts. (Full list of players) Pacers’ latest addition to the front office. Which trades make sense and trying to align draft classes. Five very good options at No. 6, starting with Jaden Ivey. Having zero interest in Shaedon Sharp. All bad vibes. How the front office spends the next few days. Lastly, hear from Pacers executive Ryan Carr about this draft. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follo

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, you’ll hear my interview with Duane Washington Jr. from the 500 Festival Parade and then I’ll introduce you to someone who has been around The Fieldhouse for a while. That’s Jhared Simpson, now a Fever assistant coach, who came up through the video room. Among the items discussed on this episode with Simpson: How coming up through the video room is helpful for aspiring coaches, like it was for Frank Vogel and Erik Spoelstra. “The best coaches are the best thieves,” he joked. Why it was a good move from the video room to the bench — taking a coaching role with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. “You don’t have the rewind button any more.” What his experience has been like working under Hall of Fame coach Marianne Stanley. How the women’s game is more of a tactical game. Realities of the WNBA — short season, small rosters (12) and just 12 teams, now due for expansion. Inside the draft room and the characteristics they prioritized. “Draft night was a breeze.” He s

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll share my experience from Chicago — inside the drawing room at the draft lottery and attending the draft combine. Then, I answered fan questions. Among the items discussed on this episode: The NBA world gathering in Chicago. Being one of two local reporters inside the drawing room at the draft lottery. 1-on-1 with Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan immediately afterward. (15:00) Full schedules last week for team evaluators. Value of the draft combine. Plus, your questions. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll tell you who will represent the franchise at the draft lottery, discuss an option Pacers fans may have to watch games next season … and then I’ll be joined by Caitlin Cooper of Indy Cornrows. This is her first visit on the podcast. This offseason for the Pacers is about simplification, identifying who is on the roster and what playing style and schemes fits this group — then making a leap. This is her first visit on the podcast. And we had no shortage of topics to discuss. Getting into writing about the Pacers, starting during the 2013-14 season. State of the franchise and the top priority being defense, which ranked 28th last season. Her reaction to swapping Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton and why they “nailed the trade deadline.” What Myles Turner could look like offensively next season. Future roles of Duane Washington Jr., Terry Taylor and Oshae Brissett. Positions that needed to be upgraded for next season. Get to know Caitlin and her p

The Pacers completed their worst season since 1984-85 with just 25 wins. A redirection and reset was necessary, but it cannot become the norm. It’s good to be back behind a microphone and talking with you once again. This one is just me — and there’s a lot of ground to cover. Among the items discussed on this episode: Facts and figures that define this past season. The need for an identity, a leader and most of all, good health. The Cavaliers failing the themselves and the Pacers, thus retaining their 2022 first-round pick. Clarification on Rick Carlisle speaking out. Missing out on the playoffs and a few Pacers motivated to go through that experience. Why the Pacers have more open home dates in March the next two seasons. Players' contracts situation. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Sean Cunningham is a reporter covering the Sacramento Kings for ABC10 and the Kings Radio Network. This was a fun conversation on the Pacers-Kings trade involving six players. He is a big fan of Tyrese Haliburton — the person and player. Among the items discussed on this episode: Reaction in Sacramento and a disruption to the Kings’ core Whether the Kings needed clarity at its guard position What will ultimately make this deal worthwhile for the Kings Analysis of Buddy Hield’s game and how he can be a frustrating player Haliburton’s personality and charisma Why there’s so much to like about him and his game ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

There are just six weeks left in the regular season, and Indy is lively with the NFL Combine, Big Ten and Horizon League basketball tournaments in town — and there was a lot of Pacers subjects to touch on. Among the items discussed on this episode: Pacers on the road for 6 of 7, the end of one streak and continuation of another. Playoffs are out of sight, so now what? What to watch for and what we need to see more of. Two Pacers assistant coaches made decisions about jobs elsewhere. Tyrese Haliburton shining in his first seven games in Indy. Haliburton-Brogdon backcourt, and why Brogdon’s timeline doesn’t match. All-Star weekend, Haliburton in Rising Stars and Larry Bird's absence. How Oshae Brissett has thrived since The Trades. Being limited in their ability to re-sign Jalen Smith. A surprising local TV note to pass along. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and In

I expected the Pacers to be active at the trade deadline and they have been. First, agreeing to deal Caris LeVert to the Cavaliers for cap space + draft assets, then a major six-player deal with the Kings centered on Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton. Among the items discussed on this episode: The Pacers’ new direction and why both deals made sense LeVert’s 13 months in Indiana Haliburton surprising availability and the Pacers being thrilled to land him What I’ve been told about him and his booming, charismatic personality Why they’re likely not done yet What this means for Myles Turner and Malcolm Brogdon Lance Stephenson signing for the rest of the season Why forward Reggie Perry is ineligible to play and A LOT more ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

The Pacers are 15-29 and have lost 13 of their last 16 games. I get into where they are at, plus a few injuries concerns to Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner. Then, you'll get TWO interviews. First, with Mad Ants general manager Chris Taylor, who started with the Pacers back in 2012. And then Carlos Knox on returning to the Indiana Fever as a WNBA assistant. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

Where to begin… It was an active week for the Pacers off the court. Are they serious about a rebuild, what to make of Myles Turner speaking out and Rick Carlisle enters the heath & safety protocols. Among the items discussed on this episode: Head coach Rick Carlisle testing positive for COVID-19, to miss several games; Lloyd Pierce to fill in. Inside Tuesday’s practice and a closed-door meeting with the core players. Myles Turner making his position known, wanting to be valued and maximized. How Kevin Pritchard messed up big time. Why it is a favorable trade market for the Pacers. Undefined and limited roles for several players. Your questions answered. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. -----

Kevin Bowen is a proud Hoosier, a Cathedral HS and IU grad who is now the co-host of “Kevin & Query” on 107.5 The Fan in Indianapolis. He can be heard from 7-10 a.m. ET each morning. We covered a lot of ground on this show. Among the items discussed on this episode: Settling in with the new show and his co-host, Jake Query. Taking pride in being a voice in his hometown. How he prepares for the show and getting up around 4:30 a.m. Success of Hard Knocks, the Manningcast and podcasts. Offseason Pacers changes, running it back with the same personnel and health concerns. Fan attendance, viewership concerns and apathy setting in. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25%

Damjan Rudez spent just one season with the Pacers, but he quickly became close with the team and was appreciated by fans. On this episode, Damo opens up on his decision to retire from basketball at 35 and how his one year with the franchise "remains the highlight of my career.” Among the items discussed on this episode: Why now and the factors that went into his decision. How he plans to fill the time with family, coaching and broadcasting. Other teammates deciding to retire recently, like Ian Mahinmi, and hearing from his Pacers family. Feeling crushed when he was traded to Minnesota, and learning about the business of basketball. His experiences with the Timberwolves and the Magic, reuniting with Frank Vogel in Orlando for a season. The value of playing professionally as a teenager and being pushed by veterans. The conditions in Croatia amid the ongoing pandemic. ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the sch

On this episode, I’m joined by Lauren Roa, the senior director of merchandising and retail, to discuss the Pacers Team Store and the new City Edition Mixtape Uniform — from concept to on the court and in her store. She’s now on her sixth season in this role. Among the items discussed on this episode: Newly-renovated team store at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which is open Monday-Saturday 12-5 p.m, and is innovative, has improved lighting. They’re focusing on technology and experience, in addition to products. Like at games, it is a cashless experience. What happened to the giant basketball and Boomer inside the store. How ‘90s items and throwbacks have become among the bestsellers, along with the jersey of lottery pick Chris Duarte. Her background in merchandise, working at Finish Line for eight years, returning after previously being an intern to run the team store. The detailed process to design (three years ago) and launch a new uniform, working in conjunction with Nike. “Product is king.” Paying

On this episode, I go solo from the road ... and share my thoughts on the Pacers' 3-7 start, the unfavorable schedule, what's up with home games, a cautious ramp up for Caris LeVert, plenty of injury updates, and why all the talk about the Wilson basketball? ----- For great Pacers tickets, visit OnlyIndyTickets.com. They have great tickets for terrific prices for every game on the schedule. From hard-to-find seats for hot match-ups to bargain tickets that are cheaper than the box office. Only Indy Tickets is your first stop for Pacers tickets and anything else going on in Indianapolis. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

J. Michael Falgoust spent the last three years covering the Pacers for the Indianapolis Star, but he recently departed to become the sports editor at the Orlando Sentinel, where he got his start in the business. He discussed his new role, then we got into the craft of beat reporting, how it's often misunderstood — and then covered his time in Indy writing about the team. ----- Podcast listeners can get 25% off a subscription of Fieldhouse Files by going to http://fieldhousefiles.substack.com/ffpodcast. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.