
Indiana Pacers wing Ben Sheppard recently shared insights about his injury and recovery in an exclusive interview with Spencer Davies of RG. The second-year player suffered a strained left oblique in November during a game against the Miami Heat, which sidelined him for nearly a month.
Sheppard recalled the incident, stating, “I think it was an illegal screen, getting around an illegal screen.” Initially thought to be minor, the injury caused significant pain and required an extended recovery period.
“It’s on your side, kinda like below your ribs, but it can spread,” Sheppard explained. “Your oblique is very big and spread out too. That was the first time I’d ever heard of it when it happened to me.”
Unlike Orlando Magic stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who faced similar injuries, Sheppard’s case wasn’t as severe. He returned to the lineup on Dec. 19 during a win in Phoenix, contributing as a plus-11 in 16 minutes. He followed that with a flawless performance in Sacramento, scoring 14 points on 5-for-5 shooting, including four three-pointers.
“It’s a tough injury to deal with because I had fractured ribs too,” Sheppard said. “But you can’t really do anything. You’ve just got to let it rest. You can’t rehab it or anything. But I feel 100 percent right now. I’m just glad I’m back.”
Sheppard reflected on the team’s early struggles this season, acknowledging the adjustment period. “Those first couple stretches at the beginning of the season, we were still figuring each other out,” he said. “We had struggles early on, but we’re kinda getting into that groove and finding ways to keep getting better each game.”
Veteran teammates TJ McConnell and James Johnson have played a pivotal role in guiding Sheppard through his NBA journey. “Those are my vets, and I look up to ’em on and off the court,” he noted.
The 6-foot-6 wing has embraced his evolving role, transitioning from a college star at Belmont to a reliable contributor in Indiana’s second unit. “I think I’m good at doing what’s asked of me and playing my role,” Sheppard said. “Playing basketball for a living is pretty cool, so at the end of the day, you’ve just got to be grateful for your opportunities and make the most of ’em.”
This season, Sheppard is averaging 5.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1 assist in 20 minutes per game. As he continues to grow and adapt, the Pacers are counting on his versatility and work ethic to bolster their bench production.
Looking ahead, Sheppard remains focused on steady improvement. “I don’t know if I have a specific goal, but just make big strides each year I’m in the league. Just keep progressing,” he said.