Today the NBA playoffs get underway and it’s great to see the Indiana Pacers back in contention.
The team has suffered through so many obstacles to get back to where they are today. Before the infamous “Malice at the Palace” occurred, that was the year for the Pacers to win their first NBA title. It was also a chance for the face of the franchise, Reggie Miller to finally get what he deserved.
To the left are the two most important players for each team: Roy Hibbert for Indiana and Derrick Rose for Chicago.
There’s no way the Pacers can stop Rose, so it’s all about containing him. It’s only a matter of weeks before he is named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player…rightfully so.
“We’ve talked a little bit about their point guard,” Frank Vogel said. “It all starts with him, so that’s our focus”
It’s imperative that Hibbert stays out of foul trouble, battles Chicago’s bigs, and makes a healthy contribution on offense.
This year, the Pacers are out to prove everybody wrong. Although they have the worst record of the 16 teams that made the playoffs, the team believes that they belong.
A game is expected, two are possible—anymore would be a surprise. Even a former Pacers legend doesn’t give the team much of a chance.
“Hopefully, they’ll be successful,” said Reggie Miller. “I doubt it, but they can lick their wounds together, and that’s how a team grows.”
Playoffs are unfamiliar territory for most of the Pacers. Jeff Foster, who seems like he has been with the team forever, is in his 12th season and has the most experience. Otherwise only Danny Granger has playoff experience—and that’s just six games.
Four games, seven games or two series, this team will truly benefit from the extra, truly meaningful games. It’s also nice to see Mike Dunleavy finally get into the playoffs for the first time.
There will be a playoff viewing party today for game one hosted at Buffalo Wild Wings (8020 US 31 South). The television voice of the Pacers Chris Denari will be on hand along with Pacemates and Budweiser promo girls. Those on hand can win playoff tickets and playoff tee shirts, team signed basketballs and more. Cheer cards and posters will be given away.
Reliving the good ole’ days—this should get you in the mood for today’s game.