By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Indiana Pacers are incorporating a distinct European identity into their system ahead of the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season. At preseason media day on Monday, recently acquired Croatian center Ivica Zubac shared his enthusiasm about gelling with teammates.
The 29-year-old big expects an easy transition with star guard Tyrese Haliburton because of the guard’s high basketball IQ. “I don’t think it’s going to take long,” he stated regarding their chemistry. “For me, it was never hard playing with smart point guards.”
To prepare, the veteran of 684 NBA games altered his summer conditioning to keep up with Indiana’s rapid fast-break pace. Fully healthy to start the new season, he intends to protect the paint by setting heavy screens and sealing defenders.
Beyond the tactical fit, Zubac found a rare locker room environment that reminded him of his offseason stints with the Croatian national team. Having spent a decade in the league, he is impressed by the group’s genuine unselfishness.
“I don’t think I’ve been on a team that’s really has camaraderie like this, that have fun you know spending time with each other off the court, that are very generous,” he pointed out. “It’s really special what the guys built here.”
The Pacers now focus on their preseason schedule, facing the Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Milwaukee Bucks between October 7 and 16. Up next, they begin the Regular Season against the New Orleans Pelicans in Smoothie King Center on October 21.
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