The Indiana Pacers are dipping into their G League pipeline for some much-needed reinforcements, calling up forward Gabe McGlothan on a 10-day contract via a hardship exception. It’s the first NBA opportunity for the 26-year-old, who’s been grinding in the G League and making a strong case for a shot at the next level.
McGlothan went undrafted out of Grand Canyon University in 2024, but he’s been putting in work ever since. He spent his rookie pro season with the Grand Rapids Gold, the Nuggets’ G League affiliate, before Indiana’s own G League squad-the Noblesville Boom-acquired his returning rights this past summer. Since then, he’s been a key piece for the Boom during the G League’s Tip-Off Tournament.
And he hasn’t just been filling minutes-he’s been producing. Through 14 games, McGlothan has averaged 16.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.9 steals across 33.8 minutes per contest.
At 6'6", he’s shown a versatile skill set, shooting an efficient 52.6% from the field and a red-hot 90.0% from the free throw line. That combination of scoring, rebounding, and defensive activity has made him one of the Boom’s most reliable two-way contributors.
Now, he’ll get a chance to bring that energy to a Pacers roster that’s been hit hard by injuries. With at least four players sidelined for three or more consecutive games-and expected to remain out for a couple more weeks-Indiana qualified for a hardship exception, allowing them to sign McGlothan ahead of the standard 10-day contract window, which doesn’t open until January.
For McGlothan, this is a breakthrough moment. For the Pacers, it’s a chance to inject some fresh legs and hustle into a rotation that’s been stretched thin. And for fans, it’s another reminder of how the G League continues to serve as a proving ground for hungry players ready to seize their moment.