Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George expressed his frustration over the Indiana Pacers’ lack of acknowledgment since his departure in 2017. Despite multiple returns to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the former franchise cornerstone has yet to receive a tribute video.
Speaking to Sixers Wire’s Ky Carlin, George revealed that he and his teammates recently discussed the issue. “We were joking with the guys, and they were like, you know, ‘Do you still get a tribute video when you go to Indiana?’” George said. “I was like, ‘I’ve never gotten a tribute video since I’ve been going back to Indiana, and that was eight years ago.’”
George, who spent seven seasons with the Pacers, admitted that the lack of recognition stings. “It does, you know, it sucks,” he said. “I think the way things played out still holds a grudge to them, and they don’t realize the great runs we had in the time I was there.”
During his tenure in Indiana, George led the team to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals appearances in 2013 and 2014. He emerged as a four-time All-Star with the Pacers before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017.
Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star reported that the Pacers’ front office took notice of George’s remarks. According to a league source, the organization now intends to reach out and honor his accomplishments in future visits.
George, currently sidelined with an injury, did not play when the 76ers visited Indiana, but his comments reignited discussions about his legacy with the franchise. The 34-year-old remains one of the most decorated players in Pacers history, ranking in the team’s top 10 in points, steals, and three-pointers made.
While the Pacers have celebrated former players in the past, George’s exit remains a divisive topic among fans. His departure came after he expressed his desire to leave, leading Indiana to trade him for Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis.
Since leaving Indiana, George has played for the Thunder, the Los Angeles Clippers, and now the 76ers. Despite his success elsewhere, he still values his time with the Pacers and believes it deserves recognition.
