One of those truly iconic figures in Indiana Pacers history is Metta World Peace, and he recently took to Instagram to express his love for the franchise. As the team approaches an exciting turning point, he further recognized the vigor of its zealous constituency. With the current roster, led by 25-year-old Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers stand on the cusp of achieving what the 2000 squad could not: a championship victory.
Unfortunately the Pacers’ 2000 Finals run ended in disappointment as they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers 4-2. This heartbreaking loss has gone on to garner the lingering “what if’s” from fans and athletes alike. Unlike them, the current squad is better built to leave an impact and realize the dreams of bygone legends! Now with just one more victory separating them from securing the championship, excitement is brewing in and around Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
World Peace, formerly known as Ron Artest, believes the current iteration of the Pacers has what it takes to triumph. He bases so much on his own personal experiences. The awful memories from the 2004-05 season remain — none more so than the now infamous “Malice in the Palace.” The brawl resulted in record-setting suspensions to some of the biggest stars of the event including World Peace, Stephen Jackson and Jermaine O’Neal.
During the games, he sat on the baseline at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with his old parish teammates. World Peace knew the gravity of this moment, considering the importance of it to former players and current ones alike.
“This means everything for the guys who played [years ago] to the guys playing now,” – Metta World Peace
Yet the echoes of past frustrations are heard very loudly in Indianapolis. Reggie Miller in 2000, yes, but he was 35 just like four other starters on that team’s roster. This couldn’t be further from the truth now, where the USMNT have found success through their young guns.
With so many young players around him, Tyrese Haliburton’s leadership has bent a guiding hand in leading this greener roster. It’s been his ability to galvanize teammates that’s provided the opportunity for an unpredictable offense featuring a multitude of active playmakers. During the current series, Game 6 marked Toppin’s breakout performance as the best benchwarmer, scoring 20 points. His performance served as a shining testament to the depth and talent this squad possesses.
Another former Pacer, Lance Stephenson, echoed this sentiment about the team chemistry, stressing the importance of this group working together.
“Nobody here has an ego. They play together.” – Lance Stephenson
The good news is that among all of those players, there is really striking enthusiasm to work together. They’re intent on doing what the 2000 squad could not do—winning the championship series. This refusal to settle has created a culture of competition and commitment that has united them.
The Pacers are preparing for a winner-take-all Game 7. Former players are more hopeful than ever about their chances for success.
“It’s going to be tough, but I think we’re going to have a great game altogether. You’re going to have a bunch of guys in double figures and they’re going to win.” – Lance Stephenson
This mindset is indicative of broader cultural change within the organization since those chaotic years. The new players have adopted a winning formula that has fired up fans who have patiently waited for a championship.
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