Indiana Pacers have officially signed Iowa State guard Tamin Lipsey, adding a defensive‑minded wing to a roster that entered the season with a 1W‑0D‑4L stretch, most recently falling 121-133 to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026.
Who is Tamin Lipsey?
Lipsey, a 24‑year‑old guard known for his hustle, averaged 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.1 steals per game in his final Cyclones season. He excelled at the pick‑and‑roll, often finishing at the rim with a high‑percentage FG% around 48%. His perimeter shooting sits near 36% from three, making him a credible threat beyond the arc.
Why the Pacers pursued him now?
Head coach Rick Carlisle has been tweaking his rotation after four straight losses. The Pacers’ bench logged just 28 points per game, ranking near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Lipsey’s ability to guard multiple positions and push the tempo fits Carlisle’s emphasis on transition basketball. Adding a player who can generate steals and fast‑break opportunities addresses a glaring need.
How will Lipsey fit into Indiana’s system?
The Pacers run a lot of pick‑and‑roll action with Tyrese Haliburton and Domantas Sabonis in the post. Lipsey can slip screens, pull the ball up, and either attack the paint or kick out to a shooter. His defensive instincts should help the team improve its opponent FG% in the paint, which sat at 52% in the last five games.
What does this mean for the Pacers’ upcoming schedule?
With the next matchup against the Miami Heat, Indiana will likely see Lipsey come off the bench in the second quarter, providing fresh legs on defense. If he can replicate his college rate of 2.1 steals, the Pacers could see a boost in turnover margin, a statistic they’ve struggled with during the recent 1W‑0D‑4L run.
What’s the broader impact on the roster?
Lipsey’s contract is a two‑year, partially guaranteed deal, leaving cap space for future moves. His addition may push veteran guard Jeremy Lamb into a reduced role, while giving rookie Jordan Nwora more opportunities to develop alongside a seasoned defender. The Pacers hope this depth will help snap the losing streak that has haunted them since the early April loss to Detroit.