By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Monte Morris has agreed to a one-year partially guaranteed contract with the Indiana Pacers, as reported by multiple US-based outlets on Tuesday.
Over recent weeks, the 30-year-old point guard was considering his options, including possibly moving his talents to the EuroLeague. Previously linked to Olympiacos and Partizan Mozzart Bet from Europe’s premier club continental competition, he will compete for a spot on the 2025-26 roster of the Pacers, before perhaps resurfacing in the free-agent market.
Heading to the training camp after reaching the 2025 NBA Finals Presented by YouTube TV, the team coached by Rick Carlisle has 13 players with fully guaranteed contracts. So, there is room for Morris and fellow candidates in the opening squad. The current situation for the Pacers features Tyrese Haliburton on the injury list and projected to sit out the entire season. An additional point guard would provide necessary depth behind Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell.
Coming out of Iowa State, Morris was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 51st overall pick of the 2017 NBA draft. From an initial two-way contract and eventually staying in Mile High City for the next five years, he moved to the Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons, and Minnesota Timberwolves via trade, and last summer signed with the Phoenix Suns as a free agent. Overall, he logged 477 games played.
His efforts with the Suns last season amounted to 5.2 points, 1.6 assists, 1.5 rebounds, 0.4 steals, and 0.1 blocks per contest over 45 appearances.