Myles Turner‘s decade-long career with the Indiana Pacers concluded earlier this month when he signed a four-year, $107 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks as a free agent. Turner expressed his gratitude to Pacers fans, teammates, and coaches in a heartfelt farewell message shared on social media this past Thursday, reflecting on his time and experiences in Indiana.
A Gratitude Letter to Pacers Supporters and Community
In his message, Turner acknowledged the unwavering support he received from fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and beyond. He highlighted the emotional connection he developed over the years, noting how loyal fans were present in the arena and traveled on the road to cheer for him and his team. Turner said,
“To Pacers fans – it’s been an absolute privilege to play at Bankers Life/Gainbridge Fieldhouse… you’ve been loyal through it all,”
and added,
“You packed the Fieldhouse, rocked with us on the road, lifted me when I needed it most, and held me accountable when I needed that too. Man… I’ve damn near spent more time with y’all than I’ve gotten to spend with my own family over the years. That’s real love, and I can’t thank you enough for embracing me from day one.”
—Myles Turner
Besides fans, Turner also gave shoutouts to local businesses that had become a favorite part of his life in Indiana.
Career Highlights and Impact with the Pacers
Selected in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft out of Texas, Turner quickly became an essential piece for Indiana. Though not achieving superstar status, his consistent performance made him a crucial player, especially on defense. Over 10 seasons, he averaged 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, leading the league twice in blocks.
During Turner’s initial five seasons, the Pacers reached the playoffs every year. The team went through tougher stretches between 2021 and 2023 but returned stronger with a run to the conference finals two years ago. Last season, Indiana made it all the way to the NBA Finals but fell in a grueling seven-game series to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Contract Negotiations and Pacers’ Response
Despite his desire to remain in Indiana, Turner reportedly felt the Pacers did not offer a market-value deal this offseason. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Turner
“believed he was getting below market value offers from the Pacers.”
The Bucks subsequently signed him with a lucrative $107 million contract, a move that involved waiving Damian Lillard. This development surprised Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard, who expressed his reaction to reporters:
“I was shocked. If I’m being perfectly honest, again, I thought we were kind of going back and forth in an open way,”
and added,
“We’ve done big deals with that agency, and they’re great guys and we’ll be doing more business with them. But Myles must’ve heard something in that (Bucks offer) that said, ‘I’m gonna take it right now.’”
—Kevin Pritchard
Turner’s Departure Amid Trade Rumors and Team Changes
Throughout his time with the Pacers, Turner was often involved in trade speculations, which he frequently joked about surviving, especially during trade deadlines. Yet, this time, he chose to move on independently by signing with Milwaukee. His transition arrives at a pivotal moment for the Bucks, a franchise facing offseason uncertainties.
The Bucks are awaiting clarification on whether star player Giannis Antetokounmpo will request a trade, a decision that will significantly influence the team’s strategy going forward. Should Antetokounmpo remain, the addition of Turner aims to help Milwaukee sustain their competitiveness for a championship following Lillard’s departure.