Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Pacers Couldn't Ignore Myles Turner's Message After He Left For Milwaukee

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rex Villas | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 7:29 AM ET

The Indiana Pacers fell short of winning the franchise's first-ever NBA championship after losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals.

The losing did not stop there for the Pacers, as they saw big man Myles Turner depart for an Eastern Conference rival during the NBA free agency. The former Texas Longhorns decided to leave the team he played for in his first 10 seasons in the pros and sign a four-year contract worth $107 million with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Days after putting pen to paper to join the Bucks, Turner shared a heartfelt farewell letter for Indiana and Pacers fans on Thursday night.

To Pacers fans - it's been an absolute privilege to play at Bankers Life/Gainbridge Fieldhouse… you've been loyal through it all," Turner wrote.

He also addressed the city of Indianapolis itself, saying, "Thank you for pouring into me as a PERSON, not just a player."

Turner's message was heard by many, including, of course, the Pacers, who left a meaningful reaction in the comments section: ""

Selected 11th overall in the 2015 NBA draft by the Pacers, Turner is ready to start a new chapter in his basketball career. He should play a big role right away for the Bucks, who will need his excellent rim protection and ability to stretch the floor as a center, especially since Milwaukee also parted ways in the offseason with Brook Lopez.

A two-time NBA leader in blocks, Turner is sporting career averages of 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks through 642 games. He is also a career 36.2 percent shooter from behind the arc.

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

More must-reads: