Kawamura Sparks Pacers Summer League Play

Yuki Kawamura Lights Up Las Vegas Summer League

Coach Rick Carlisle and almost the entire Pacers roster traveled to Las Vegas to watch the Summer League squad compete, and the spotlight quickly fell on rookie guard Yuki Kawamura. The 25‑year‑old from Japan, who has logged 40 regular‑season games over two NBA seasons, is “easy to like,” according to Carlisle. The coach praised Kawamura for exploding into games, seeing plays before they unfold, drawing contact and attacking the rim with intensity.

In two Summer League contests Kawamura is averaging 10 points per game and dishing out 3.5 assists, reinforcing the sense that he could be a key contributor for the 2026‑27 campaign. The Pacers have additional games scheduled for Monday and Wednesday, giving Kawamura more chances to showcase his quickness and playmaking. As the summer continues, Kawamura’s performance may convince Carlisle to carve out a regular role for the 5‑foot‑7 guard.

Tyrese Haliburton Set to Return After Achilles Battle

Tyrese Haliburton missed the entire 2025‑26 season after rupturing his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, but the former All‑Star has been active in his rehab. Carlisle said Haliburton has been “playing 5‑on‑5 for a while,” signaling that the point guard is preparing to rejoin the lineup. The coach described the recovery as “a journey” and emphasized Haliburton’s aggressive summer workouts.

Should Haliburton return to full health, he could provide the Pacers with a primary ball‑handler who missed crucial postseason moments. His comeback will be watched closely as the team looks to bounce back from a rough season and rebuild its offensive rhythm. The hope is that the experience from the injury period will only sharpen Haliburton’s determination when he steps back onto the court.

Ivica Zubac Promised Rim Pressure in 2026‑27

The Pacers acquired center Ivica Zubac in February, but injuries limited his play in the meantime. Carlisle highlighted Zubac’s ability to “put the kind of rim pressure he can put on with rolls, seals, and (scoring) at the rim,” noting there is “great opportunity here.” The coach believes Zubac’s presence could fill a void that the team has lacked throughout the season.

Zubac’s impact will be measured in how often he attacks the paint and protects the rim, areas where the Pacers struggled in the 2025‑26 run. If he can stay healthy, the big man could become a focal point of the defense and a scorer in transition. The summer will be key for him to integrate fully into Carlisle’s system.

Jarace Walker Cements Role as Key Reserve

Former No. 8 overall pick Jarace Walker entered his fourth NBA season as a prominent part of the Pacers’ rotation, especially after a difficult 2025‑26 campaign. Carlisle stressed that Walker must become “a star in his role as a system player,” noting the team’s emphasis on collective execution. Walker’s ability to handle the ball and stretch the floor will be essential as the Pacers look to add depth.

With experienced big men and sharpshooters on the roster, Walker’s development could provide the inside‑outside balance needed for a deep postseason run. His progress over the summer will likely dictate how many minutes he receives heading into the regular season. Expectations are high that the emerging forward can thrive in a supporting role while still showcasing his star potential.

See Photos from Pacers Summer League Practice

Below is a gallery of images captured during the Indiana Pacers’ 2026 Summer League practice session in Indianapolis.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Indiana Pacers’ 2026 Summer League prospects and upcoming season plans.