[ad_1]
Jermaine O’Neal would like to see the Indiana Pacers show more appreciation for the best players in franchise history.
The franchise announced via an Instagram post that Buddy Hield would change his number from 24 to seven for the 2023-24 season. This decision drew criticism from fans, as O’Neal had made his number famous during his eight-season tenure from 2000 to 2008.
O’Neal himself weighed in on the post, stating that he has no ill will toward Buddy, but is frustrated that the Pacers organization isn’t looking back on its history.
“I love Buddy and the work he does. My statement has nothing to do with him,” Jermaine commented on the Instagram post. “It’s disappointing to see teams recognize and celebrate players every year who have been the franchise’s best players on and off the court, but the Pacers don’t. It’s been confusing and disappointing, to say the least! !”
O’Neal was a six-time All-Star and all of them occurred during his tenure in Indiana. He averaged 18.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 514 games for the team and helped the Pacers reach the postseason six times.
The Pacers have six retired numbers but only two of them belong to former Pacers players.
Hield is entering his third season with the team and is among the team’s best players. He also points out that he has only worn the number 24 during his professional career.
Hield, nor the Pacers, have made a statement regarding the situation and it is unknown if they will do so. In the meantime, they will look ahead to the first game of the season when they host the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 25.
#disappointing #Pacers #dont #celebrate #franchises #players