As the NBA trade deadline looms, a flurry of moves has reshaped rosters across the league-and once again, Indiana’s deep basketball roots were on full display. A handful of former Indiana high school stars found themselves packing bags and heading to new cities this week, reinforcing the state’s long-standing reputation as a basketball factory.
Here’s a breakdown of the Hoosier State products who were on the move-and what their new homes could mean for the next chapter in their careers.
Eric Gordon (North Central High School - Indianapolis)
Traded from Philadelphia 76ers to Memphis Grizzlies
Eric Gordon’s been a steady hand in the league since 2008, and now he’s headed to Memphis in what could be one of the final chapters of a lengthy, productive NBA career. After a brief stint in Philly, the veteran guard joins a Grizzlies team that’s clearly retooling.
Gordon’s experience and scoring punch could be a stabilizing force in a young locker room, especially if Memphis leans on his leadership as much as his shooting. At this point in his career, it’s less about numbers and more about impact-and Gordon still has the tools to make one.
Mike Conley Jr. (Lawrence North High School - Indianapolis)
Traded from Minnesota Timberwolves to Charlotte Hornets (waived)
Mike Conley’s journey took another unexpected turn this week. The former Lawrence North standout-who formed one of Indiana’s most iconic high school duos alongside Greg Oden-is now a free agent after being waived by the Hornets following a trade from Minnesota.
Conley’s still got plenty in the tank as a floor general, and while this move puts him in limbo for the moment, don’t be surprised if a contender scoops him up soon. His ability to run an offense, hit timely shots, and mentor younger guards makes him a valuable piece for any team eyeing a deep playoff run.
Jaren Jackson Jr. (Park Tudor / La Lumiere - Indianapolis / La Porte)
Traded from Memphis Grizzlies to Utah Jazz
This one’s big. Jaren Jackson Jr.-an All-Star caliber big man and the reigning Defensive Player of the Year-was part of a significant shake-up as Memphis pivots toward a rebuild.
Now in Utah, Jackson joins a young, ascending core that could benefit from his elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing ability. The Jazz have been quietly stockpiling talent, and Jackson’s arrival gives them a defensive anchor with offensive upside.
His fit alongside Utah’s young guards and versatile forwards will be something to watch closely in the second half of the season.
Jaden Ivey (Marian High School / La Lumiere - Mishawaka / La Porte)
Traded from Detroit Pistons to Memphis Grizzlies
After two strong years at Purdue, Jaden Ivey entered the league with high expectations-and now he gets a fresh start. The former first-round pick heads to Memphis in a move that could help jumpstart his development.
Detroit’s crowded backcourt and ongoing struggles made it tough for Ivey to find rhythm, but in Memphis, he’ll have a new opportunity to carve out a role. His explosive first step and athleticism make him a dynamic threat, and if the Grizzlies give him the keys to create, he could thrive in a system that values pace and energy.
Trayce Jackson-Davis (Center Grove High School - Greenwood)
Traded from Golden State Warriors to Toronto Raptors
Trayce Jackson-Davis heads north after a developmental year with the Warriors. The former Indiana Hoosier star showed flashes in Golden State’s frontcourt but battled for consistent minutes behind a crowded rotation.
In Toronto, there’s a chance for a more defined role. The Raptors are in the midst of their own retooling phase, and Jackson-Davis brings a mix of interior scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility that could earn him a spot in the regular rotation.
If the opportunity is there, he’s got the skill set to make the most of it.
Indiana’s basketball pipeline continues to churn out pros who find ways to stay relevant-and impactful-at the highest level. Whether it’s veterans like Gordon and Conley navigating the back end of their careers or young talents like Ivey and Jackson-Davis looking for their breakout moment, this week’s trades offered a reminder: Hoosier hoops runs deep, and the NBA knows it.