Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is challenging the NBA’s long-standing blueprint for success. In a recent interview, Carlisle made it clear that in today’s league, roster depth matters more than superstar power. His comments come on the heels of Indiana’s inspiring run to the 2025 NBA Finals, where the Pacers pushed the Oklahoma City Thunder to seven games without relying on a traditional “big three” model.
Carlisle’s philosophy is rooted in balance, sustainability, and collective effort.
“Part of this is, we play a lot of guys and that’s intentional,” he said. “It’s a way for us to engage more players, keep minutes reasonable, and wear down the opponent’s legs. It’s no secret. That’s a big part of our approach.”
The Pacers had no player average more than 33.4 minutes per game during the regular season, and 12 players averaged over 15 minutes. In the playoffs, nine players saw at least 14 minutes of action per game. This deep rotation wasn’t just functional, it was strategic.
Carlisle believes the NBA has shifted into a “play hard” league, where effort and depth trump star-centric systems.
“It’s not just about being top-heavy with stars,” he explained. “Roster construction is evolving. It’s becoming more important to have a deep rotation of good players rather than just two or three great ones dominating the ball.”
Do all NBA teams play the same?
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— Caitlin Cooper (@C2_Cooper) August 5, 2025
The 2025 NBA Finals offered a compelling case study. Both the Pacers and Thunder reached the league’s biggest stage with deep, versatile rosters. The Thunder, despite having MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, leaned heavily on their bench and role players. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns, boasting three max-contract superstars, failed to make the playoffs, hamstrung by injuries, a rigid rotation, and the financial constraints of the new CBA’s second apron.
Carlisle’s model emphasizes smart drafting, internal development, and contract flexibility. It’s a philosophy that values cohesion over celebrity, and it’s gaining traction across the league.
“Things are shifting. Everyone’s watching what’s happening,” he said.
As the Pacers prepare for a new season without injured star Tyrese Haliburton and former center Myles Turner, Carlisle remains committed to his vision. With a roster full of young talent and versatile contributors, Indiana is poised to continue its rise, not by chasing stars, but by building a team that plays hard, plays smart, and plays together.
