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$109 Million Bucks Player Takes Jab at Pacers Amid NBA Free Agency

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sahil Goswami | Last updated Jul 12, 2025 7:45 AM ET

The Milwaukee Bucks are making big moves this offseason. In a bold decision, they waived Damian Lillard, who was recovering from an Achilles injury, and stretched his $113 million contract over five years, creating financial flexibility. That move helped them land former Pacers big man Myles Turner, who signed a four-year, $108.9 million deal with the Bucks. The contract includes a player option for the 2028-29 season and starts with a $25.3 million salary for 2025-26.

Turner’s move to Milwaukee ends his 10-year run with the Indiana Pacers, the team that drafted him 11th overall in 2015. While the Pacers reportedly offered him $22 million per year, Turner wasn’t impressed.

"For me, ultimately it was about just staying competitive," he said. "Two years ago, we got to the conference finals. Obviously, last year we got to the Finals."

Turner added that being part of winning basketball changed his view of the league.

Myles Turner with a not so subtle jab towards the Pacers on why he decided to sign with their divisional rival Bucks:

“For me, it was ultimately about just staying competitive. … I saw a chance to remain competitive here.”

A whole new level of spice towards this rivalry now. pic.twitter.com/S6TKJVqiZK
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 11, 2025

In what many took as a subtle jab at Indiana, Turner praised Milwaukee’s vision. "John, even Doc, has assured me that winning is a top priority here, and we just align with our visions," he said. Turner felt the Pacers were no longer the right fit, especially with their star, Tyrese Haliburton, sidelined due to an Achilles injury.

Turner’s move marks a major shift in the Eastern Conference. Joining forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo, he brings elite rim protection and improved shooting. He’s coming off a strong year, averaging 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and shooting a career-high 39.6% from three.

The Bucks hope his presence can push them over the hump and maybe give Turner the title shot he never got in Indiana.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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