Pacers Announce Andrew Nembhard News After Leaving Thunder Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Oct 24, 2025 12:16 AM ET

Guard Andrew Nembhard is entering his fourth season with the Indiana Pacers after being selected in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft. The 25-year-old has steadily developed into a reliable starter, and with Tyrese Haliburton expected to miss the entire season, Nembhard is poised to take on an expanded role.

He has proven to be a perfect complementary piece, often tasked with defending the opposing team’s top offensive player thanks to his excellent perimeter defense. Nembhard thrives off the ball and consistently makes smart decisions on both ends of the floor. During Indiana’s run to the NBA Finals last season, he averaged 12.5 points, 4.7 assists and 3.2 rebounds across 23 games while shooting 47.1% from the field and 46.5% from three-point range.

With the Pacers entering a transitional year and expectations tempered due to Haliburton’s absence, Nembhard will be a key figure in keeping the team competitive.

Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2)© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

However, his momentum came to a halt during Thursday’s regular season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With 7:48 remaining in the second quarter, Nembhard was subbed out and replaced by teammate Taelon Peter.

He did not return for the rest of the first half, and concern grew when he remained absent after halftime. Moments later, the Pacers announced he would not return due to a sore left shoulder. “Injury Update: Andrew Nembhard (sore left shoulder) will not return to tonight's game against the Thunder,” the team posted on X.

Injury Update: Andrew Nembhard (sore left shoulder) will not return to tonight's game against the Thunder.
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) October 24, 2025

The severity of the injury remains unclear. Nembhard finished with 16 minutes played, recording four points, one rebound and four assists. He went 0-for-5 from the field, a performance that may have been affected by the shoulder issue.

Nembhard’s absence also tested Indiana’s depth and defensive versatility, as the Pacers struggled to contain reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander down the stretch. The Pacers ultimately fell in double overtime to the Thunder by a final score of 141–135.

With Nembhard sidelined, Ben Sheppard started the second half in his place and could see increased minutes if Nembhard’s shoulder injury proves to be significant. Nembhard’s next opportunity to return will come Saturday, when Indiana faces the Memphis Grizzlies on the road.

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

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