--Pacers co-owner Herb Simon is taking on an added role in the franchise -- CEO of Pacers Sports and Entertainment.
"The franchise has gone through many good years, but the last few years we've been at a crossing point and it's important for me to have a viable franchise in this city," said Simon, who co-owns the Pacers with his brother Mel. "The city has been real good to me, my family, my brother, that we don't ever want to disappoint this city and the people, the fans. With (former CEO former) Donnie (Walsh) leaving, it would be an appropriate time." Larry Bird is still the Pacers president of basketball operations, but Simon will be involved in the "major basketball decisions."
--This is the first time as a head coach that Jim O'Brien has not led his team to the playoffs in his first season as coach.
O'Brien routinely reminded the media during the season that he has a history of getting his team to the playoffs. O'Brien led the Pacers to a 36-46 record this season.
"I'm very disappointed we didn't make the playoffs," O'Brien said. "We need to make sure players wearing Pacers' uniforms next year are mentally and physically tough."
President Larry Bird said O'Brien's job is safe despite the Pacers finishing with a losing record for the second straight season.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I'm very disappointed we didn't make the playoffs. We need to make sure players wearing Pacers' uniforms next year are mentally and physically tough." -- Pacers coach Jim O'Brien.
