On the heels of the Indiana Pacers’ inspiring run to the 2025 NBA Finals, head coach Rick Carlisle has signed a contract extension, solidifying his future with the franchise he led to its first Eastern Conference title since 2000.
This marks Carlisle’s second extension in under two years, reflecting the organization’s confidence in the veteran coach, who guided a young and energetic Pacers team through a postseason surge that captivated fans.
Indiana ultimately fell in seven games to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Finals, but the playoff run — capped with 50 regular season wins — marked a high point in Carlisle’s second tenure with the team.
The playoff journey included series victories over the No. 5 seed Milwaukee Bucks and top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, before outlasting the New York Knicks in a gritty Eastern Conference Finals.
“We took a step forward,” Carlisle said earlier this week. “Now it’s about building something that lasts.”
The Pacers now face significant changes heading into next season. All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton tore his Achilles in Game 7 of the Finals and is expected to miss a substantial part of the 2025-26 season. Additionally, starting center Myles Turner departed in free agency, signing with the Milwaukee Bucks.
In light of these challenges, Carlisle has expressed faith in the next wave of Indiana talent. Third-year guard Bennedict Mathurin is expected to take on a larger role, with Carlisle calling him “ready to lead and grow.” He also praised rookie Johnny Furphy, describing the Australian wing as a “seamless fit” in Indiana’s fast-paced offensive system and a potential breakout player.
Carlisle, who holds a career coaching record of 993-860, has now led the Pacers during two separate stints. His resume includes coaching the Detroit Pistons and guiding the Dallas Mavericks to the 2011 NBA title. He is one of just 14 people to win an NBA championship as both a player and a coach.
A former 6-foot-5 guard, Carlisle was drafted by the Boston Celtics and later played for the Knicks and then-New Jersey Nets. He reached the NBA Finals three times with Boston, winning the championship in 1986.
Now 65, Carlisle appears to be entering a new phase with Indiana — one focused not just on winning, but on sustaining success amid transition. With this extension, the Pacers have made it clear: Rick Carlisle is the man they trust to lead that charge.
