The NBA trade deadline always brings its share of fireworks, but this year, Indiana found itself at the heart of the action - both in terms of team moves and hometown ties.
The Indiana Pacers made a major splash by acquiring Ivica Zubac, a move that signals a clear commitment to solidifying their future at the center position. Zubac, a reliable interior presence with playoff experience, gives the Pacers a long-term anchor in the paint - something they’ve been missing in recent seasons. His ability to rebound, protect the rim, and finish around the basket should fit well with Indiana’s young, fast-paced core.
But the storyline didn’t end there. This deadline also saw a flurry of movement involving players with deep roots in Indiana high school and college basketball - names that carry weight in the Hoosier State.
Eric Gordon, the veteran guard who first made waves at North Central High School in Indianapolis before a one-and-done season with the Hoosiers back in 2007-08, is on the move again. This time, he’s headed from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Gordon’s career has been a model of longevity and adaptability. Since entering the league in 2008, he’s carved out a role as a dependable scorer and floor-spacer, suiting up for the Clippers, Pelicans, Rockets, Suns, and most recently, the Sixers.
Now in the twilight of his career, Gordon brings a veteran presence and shooting touch to a young Grizzlies squad looking for leadership and stability.
Another former Indiana standout, Trayce Jackson-Davis, is getting a fresh start as well. The Center Grove High School product and Indiana University legend - who left Bloomington as the program’s all-time leader in rebounds and blocks - has been traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Toronto Raptors.
Jackson-Davis had a standout college career, and while his NBA journey is still in its early stages, this move could be the opportunity he needs to carve out a consistent role. Toronto’s roster offers more room for development, and his defensive instincts and interior scoring could earn him valuable minutes in a system that’s leaning into youth and athleticism.
Meanwhile, Kel’el Ware, another recent Hoosier, was the subject of some trade buzz but ultimately stayed put with the Miami Heat. Ware, who played just one season at Indiana in 2023-24 before being drafted in the first round by Miami, remains an intriguing long-term project. His blend of size, skill, and upside has the Heat intrigued, and it’s clear they’re not ready to part ways with his potential just yet.
All in all, this deadline didn’t just reshape rosters - it reshuffled the paths of several players with deep Indiana ties. For fans in the state, it’s been a reminder of just how strong a pipeline Indiana continues to be for basketball talent at every level.