by John Miller
The NBA season is in full swing, records are wiped clean and there is hope for everyone (except the Timberwolves). Over the past few years, waiting for the Pacer season to start felt more like waiting for Hoosier football season, optimistic on the outside all the while knowing there was no hope and no bright future to look forward to. After attending the home opener, I finally feel confident in saying the team is headed in the right direction.
Simply put, the first thing every winning NBA franchise needs to win basketball games is talent. While the Pacers may not have an elite superstar, they have assembled three players who are in the tier right below and working to push forward. These players are Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Roy Hibbert. The familiar face on the list is Granger, and while Danny may be the team’s best player, he is no longer the face of the franchise. That role has shifted into the hands of the big fella, Roy Hibbert.
This season, Hibbert has developed into the vocal and emotional leader the team has desperately needed since the departure of Reggie Miller. Hibbert’s work ethic during the offseason losing weight and improving his game has earned respect from his teammates and coaching staff. The earned respect also comes with responsibility, and I know Roy will be up to the challenge not only to motivate his teammates, but also get in their face when needed.
Roy’s leadership has allowed the team to grow not only on the court as teammates, but also off the court as friends. There were several stories this offseason of the guys going out together and having a good time. The team events have led to the desired camaraderie that has been missing and will translate to the court.
Off the court, Hibbert has taken it upon himself to create a buzz in the city about the Pacers again. He has an uncanny ability to get the fans involved and make them feel like they are part of the team. He interacts on Twitter with his followers, talks with fans before games, and created a cheering section devoted to making Conseco Fieldhouse a real home court advantage again.
“Area 55″ as it was named, is a section in the club level of loud, crazy, and loyal Pacer fans. This offseason, Hibbert held auditions to find the craziest and most devoted 55 Pacer fans and handed them season tickets. These fans lead chants, hold posters, and create an atmosphere that is more suited for Cameron Indoor. I was excited to see them for the first time at the home opener, and they did not disappoint.
In a Pacer era that has been riddled with guns, strip clubs, and palace brawls, it is wonderful to have a role model leading the team once again. Roy will continue to make the city proud and his leadership will show results on the court. Hibbert has a genuine love for the game of basketball and for being a positive citizen in the community. While nothing is more important than wins and losses, having players you can be excited to watch and cheer for is almost as important. I’m here to tell you to cheer now, and enjoy the ride back to being a contender in the near future.
Follow me on Twitter @JWM_IndySports or shoot me an email at jwmiller.fantasysports@yahoo.com
