2025 ECF MVP Pascal Siakam reflected back on getting traded from the Toronto Raptors/support he’s received from the Indiana Pacers after advancing to the 2025 NBA Finals (defeated the New York Knicks 4-2).
(via Indiana Pacers):
“It was a tough moment. I think obviously being in Toronto — I grew up there. I came there as a little kid and it was a huge part of who I am as a person. Having to leave that place was hard, and I think from the first time I had a conversation with Chad [Buchanan], KP (Kevin Pritchard), coach (Rick Carlisle) — this was a goal. I think that just how amazing they’ve been throughout the whole process, just supporting me. Not that I needed words of affirmation, just being there for me. And just so much support from the organization, the fans — I can never take it for granted, I’ll never do that. It’s amazing, it’s rewarding to be able to be in this position. It’s like what? A full year? Half? Whatever you want to call it. But to be able to get to this level and have the opportunity to play for an NBA championship, that’s amazing.”
