Fieldhouse Files: Scott Agness on the Indiana Pacers

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’m talking about the Pacers’ G League affiliate, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, who are officially moving to Indy, playing home games at a proposed arena in Noblesville, Indiana and will be undergoing a full rebranding. Fort-Wayne based Mad Ants reporter Justin Cohn joins to discuss. Among the items discussed on this episode: Another “very significant day” for Pacers Sports & Entertainment A full breakdown of what went down Monday What this move means to the Mad Ants and Pacers Then, Justin Cohn on how the Pacers failed the Mad Ants (12:00) Pacers Sports & Entertainment ⁠officially bought the Mad Ants on Sept. 9, 2015⁠. ----- Follow Scott on ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, and read his work on ⁠⁠fieldhousefiles.com⁠⁠.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, let’s review this past season: a 10-win improvement on last year, exceeding expectations but also returning to the script and in the lottery for the third straight offseason. And hopefully it’s for the last time in a decade. Among the items discussed on this episode: Adapting in my 11th season on the Pacers beat A year without expectations, instead about growth and development in Year 2 of a rebuild (5:25) The four who had career seasons (14:45) Two areas that must be improved for next season (23:20) Two of their five draft picks unknown and what to root for (30:00) ----- Follow Scott on ⁠Twitter⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠, and read his work on ⁠fieldhousefiles.com⁠.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’ll touch on the Pacers’ four-game road trip, the offensive showcase in a loss to the 76ers; then bring on former Pacers writer Conrad Brunner to share memories of longtime PR director David Benner … and then Justin, a Pacers fan from down under and part of The Paceroos Podcast, talks about his visit. Among the items discussed on this episode: 3-1 road trip, morning shootaround at Buddy Hield’s home and a team dinner at a Dallas steakhouse.Using the road trip to continue to build, grow and coming together as a team while principles are reinforced. (4:30)A pitiful performance in San Antonio, but George Hill was home and started.Tyrese Haliburton continuing to elevate his game. (8:40)Krissy Myers on Benner (12:40)Remembering DB with Conrad Brunner (14:10)Justin on his Indy experience, flying in from Australia to attend two games (31:46) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’ll get you caught up on a very busy February for the Indiana Pacers. A contract extension, action at the trade deadline and many representatives at All-Star weekend. Among the items discussed on this episode: Pacers being 27-35 — losing 16 of 19 games entering the breakWhy Myles Turner’s contract extension made sense for both sidesPacers waiving Goga Bitadze, Terry Taylor and James Johnson to complete the trade — then bringing Johnson backBuddy Hield beating Reggie Miller’s record for 3s in a seasonMy Salt Lake City experienceThe questions to players that were so aggravating on media daySix players representing the franchise, plus over 70 representatives from Indy to scout it out for next yearKendall Brown having season-ending surgery (the news broke during the recording) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, it’s time for a midseason report. TV analyst (and former Pacer) Eddie Gill joins to break down the Pacers’ first 41 games. Among the items discussed on this episode: The 23-18 start and how surprising it has been … to everyoneHis role as an analyst on Bally Sports Indiana and the Pacers Radio Network (1:25)On the Pacers’ magic in the first three months and quickly coming together (3:45)Impact of Tyrese Haliburton (6:45)How players know their roles and they’re ego-free (11:15)Biggest surprise/breakout player not named Andrew Nembhard (14:00)Rick Carlisle evolving as a head coach (17:30)Getting Chris Duarte involved and going (22:40)Managing and improving on their slow starts (24:30) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’ll get you caught up on all that’s happened in the last few weeks with the Pacers, discuss what’s special about this group, Tyrese Haliburton leading the way, considerations at the trade deadline and much more. Among the items discussed on this episode: Change in fan expectations? (2:30)The Pacers’ surprising start and what’s working well (5:45)Strong Pacers representation for each monthly NBA award (9:00)Role players shining and a few players outside the rotation (15:00)Considerations leading up to the trade deadline (17:00)A breakdown of Myles Turner’s situation and future (20:30)Haliburton’s candidacy for the All-Star game (27:30)Chris Duarte trying to recapture his role (30:43)My experience at the G League Showcase (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 the Pacers’ great start to the season (10-6) and what’s working. Then, I’ll be joined by Indy’s own Michael Grady, now the television voice of the Minnesota Timberwolves on Bally Sports North. Among the items discussed on this episode: Pacers’ early-season success and the contributing factors (2:30)Bench success and Myles Turner embracing his role (7:43)Notable stats — second in assists, third in 3-pointers (10:50)Grady on his new role and the first month (14:45)His mom passing away on Aug. 8, deciding soon after to take the job (15:30)What he learned from Ian Eagle, who always “meets the moment” (22:10)How he thinks so highly of Slick & Nancy Leonard and is incorporating “BOOM!” into broadcasts (24:30)Pacers finally back on track and committed to excellence? (27:00) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I’m bringing in a national perspective. I’m joined by Jake Fischer, senior NBA reporter for Yahoo Sports. Among the items discussed on this episode: Jake on how attention and storylines are all on issues off from the court (5:38)His takeaways from The Process after starting on the 76ers beat with Liberty Ballers (11:30)The key for the Pacers and other teams amidst a rebuild (16:45)Pacers being all-in on Tyrese Haliburton — and his maturity (23:10)Why would the Pacers want to deal with the Lakers? (26:20)Pacers’ pursuit of Deandre Ayton (33:00) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, I look back at the first week of games, share my takeaways and other stories you may have missed. Among the items discussed on this episode: Rick Carlisle returning home to celebrate his daughter AbbyMyles Turner’s left ankle sprain, how it happened and then returning in ChicagoNuggets from recent stories: Trevelin Queen, Mathurin’s homemade meal, City Edition jersey design confirmed, KP’s message to fans and more.Daniel Theis’ current status (18:40)Team issues from the first week — defense and starts to games (20:00)Player observations (24:43)Bennedict Mathurin’s strong start and a teaching moment (30:27) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, Mel Raines, president and & chief operating officer of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, makes her first appearance on the show. We discussed the significant improvements made to and around Gainbridge Fieldhouse, what the new setup is like and what to expect. “It’s very much a new building that people will be coming back into this fall,” she said. Among the items discussed on this episode: Oct. 4, 2022 being 500 days out from the 2024 NBA All-Star Game.Notable change at training camp and two names I hear repeatedly.How the Pacers will treat the preseason and a few things I’ll be watching for.Then … Mel provides a throughout update on Phase 3 of renovations. (11:30)Dates when certain areas will be completed, including the new Kroger SkyDeck.How the plaza could be utilized — sunrise yoga, happy hour concerts, farmers market, etc.Her path from IU to politics to sports — and now having a significant role. The Details Total of $360 million spent on upgrades, plus another $18 million in capital expenditures or necessary upgrades.First event back: Oct. 2, Post MaloneTeam Store reopens: Oct. 3, plus a new store on the balcony level at gamesKroger SkyDeck: Targeting the end of November to openBicentennial unity plaza: Projecting to be done May 2023Entertainment complex building: End of 2023; restaurant, speakeasy and an entertainment space just east of the plaza. ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

The summer is over for the Pacers… On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files, Tony East of Locked on Pacers joins to discuss the Pacers’ offseason and key storylines entering training camp, which begins on Tuesday. Among the items discussed on this episode: Return of a normal offseasonRemaking of the roster, prioritizing durabilityCommitting to a rebuild and finally having a directionWhat are they going to do about the excess bigs? Is there a role for Goga Bitadze or Daniel Theis?Does it make sense to keep Buddy Hield?Lance Stephenson isn’t coming back; Will James Johnson or Langston Galloway be the vet this team needs? (16:15)Myles Turner … mentioned in trades again … entering a contract year … coming off injuries (21:50)Rick Carlisle entering Year 2 (28:15) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

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 Fieldhouse. (21:20)Influence of his father Donnie Marsh on coaching and whether he tried to talk Tyler out of it. (22:15)Receiving a game ball from Pacers coach Rick Carlisle and the team after his final game. (25:50) “I spent some time with the Mad Ants, their G League team, back in 2016-17 season and I didn’t think it could get much better than that,” Marsh said. “When I was able to join the staff of the Pacers that was truly a blessing and truly a dream come true. “My two years here, forget about the wins and losses, the Pacers are a Class A organization from top to bottom and the way that they embraced me and the way that the community embraced myself and my wife was great. I couldn’t have asked for more during my time here.” ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

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 they be kept. (41:00) ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram, and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com.

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. Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram.

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 shared their draft process and the one trait they valued most. ----- 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 share my experience from Chicago — inside the drawing room at the draft lottery and attending the draft combine. Then, I answer 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 — for players and teams.Plus, your questions answered. ----- 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 passion for the game.These past few seasons being very segmented — and the value of having a connected team.And so … much … 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.