Smiles were aplenty at Butler University's Hinkle Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening, as the Indiana Pacers hosted a party to show their appreciation for full season ticket holders. But that elation was not limited to just the fans, as Pacers' players, coaches, and staff alike appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves as they took part in the array of amusing activities. Boomer and some of the Pacemates joined in on the fun as well.
According to Ian Mahinmi, the event gives the players a chance to connect with their fans: "We don't get to do that much, so once we can, it's always a good time. I always enjoy doing that."
C.J. Miles noted that during his time in Utah and Cleveland, they held similar functions, but they were much more structured.
"I think things like this are always more fun because you get to walk around and do much more than just shake hands," Miles said. "You get to be face-to-face with the people that support you, and just let them know that we support them as well."
As soon as fans entered the historic landmark of an arena, built in 1928 and recently renovated in 2014, they were greeted by the sounds of a pep band decked out in Hickory gear. In fact, all Pacers' employees were donning their red and gold Hickory attire as part of the Pacers' season-long nod to the rich basketball history of Indiana. And what better place to honor that history than the confines of Hinkle Fieldhouse, a building riddled in basketball lore.
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Inside the Fieldhouse, amidst the many banners that Butler University has hung over the years, including two labeled National Finalist, were Hickory-inspired pennants for each Pacers player, including newcomer Ty Lawson.
Fans funneled in by the hundreds and were able to enjoy several food and drink stations, listen to the DJ Bandcamp spin some tunes, and view some Hickory Night highlights on the big screen.
The team arrived soon after and were introduced by Pacers' TV play-by-play announcer, Chris Denari, and the radio voice of the Pacers, Mark Boyle. The two broadcasting legends then moderated a lighthearted question-and-answer segment on the court.
Myles Turner and Joe Young were asked about their least favorite part of enduring rookie duties, to which both responded with chagrin about having to go on daily donut runs. Turner added that "maintaining your body" throughout the season was a learning process as well during his first year.
When Denari inquired as to who the best video gamer on the squad was, Paul George didn't hesitate to declare that title for himself.
"Me," George said. "That's my unbiased answer." He added that he enjoys playing The Division and Madden.
When asked if he's ever told a coach that he'll make the next shot, such as Jimmy Chitwood famously did in Hoosiers before following through on his promise, George Hill responded with a yes.
"As a freshman against [the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay], but we lost by 10," said Hill before chuckling.
Solomon Hill also chimed in to announce his confidence in his alma mater's (University of Arizona) chances in the NCAA Tournament: "They're going to win it."
The players and coaches then split up to man their assigned posts, including autograph stations, free throw drills, a photo booth, a coach's clinic with assistants Popeye Jones and Nate McMillan, the Pacers Fit Like A Pro Skills Challenge Obstacle Course, and the Jimmy Chitwood shot recreation station, where fans could try their luck shooting from the same spot on the same floor that the Hoosiers character hit his state championship game-winner in the movie.
Coach Frank Vogel also had a lengthy line of fans waiting to meet him, and he was clearly in no rush, taking the time to talk, take pictures, shake hands, and even give a few hugs to his supporters.
Lawson said that while the Nuggets held similar events during his time in Denver, they paled in comparison from a size standpoint. He also mentioned that his recently tweaked ankle feels "way better." It certainly appeared that way as he was hoisting up jumpers along with fans at the Jimmy Chitwood shot station.
When Coach Vogel addressed the crowd, thanking the fans for their support, he assured them of the team's goal for the home stretch.
"We're poised for a strong finish here," Vogel said.
If tonight was any indication, the Pacers' faithful will be out in full force for the remaining 11 regular season home games this season at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.