The Indiana Pacers, in an effort to salvage an injury-riddled season, signed Mac McClung on October 27th. Despite only six appearances in the last four years, McClung is a household name thanks to his dunking ability. As a G League player, he has won three NBA Dunk Contests.
He has also found success in real games, not just exhibition events. He is a G League MVP and champion, but hasn’t been able to kickstart a long NBA career.
The Pacers gave him a chance, and in his debut against the Dallas Mavericks, he posted a well-rounded seven points, two rebounds, one assist, two steals, and a block. He also didn’t register a single turnover.
Indiana was looking for a player who could take care of the ball. They didn’t care too much about the dunking, which is why he refrained from doing it during his tryouts.
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 15: Mac McClung #8 of the Orlando Magic dunks the ball during the 2025 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest as part of the State Farm All-Star Saturday Night at Chase Center on February 15, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Indiana Pacers Auditioned Three Players
In order to make room for McClung, the Pacers waived James Wiseman, who they had previously been rather high on.
McClung’s signing was not a forgone conclusion. The Pacers worked out two other players for the roster spot, and despite not playing an NBA game since last March and missing the preseason, McClung was in the best shape.
“We had a workout yesterday with three guys, and he basically won the position,” summed up Carlisle on an October 28th radio appearance. “He can score. He’s a hard-playing guy. For all the things we did in the workout yesterday, he didn’t dunk the ball once. Let’s get off the dunking thing as the attraction here. We need a guy who has energy, can go hard, and is healthy. I think his health is probably the number one thing.”
The Pacers, especially Carlisle, couldn’t care less about McClung’s dunking ability. Of course, it translates to valued athletism, but the fact of the matter is, the Pacers needed a good player. McClung, despite his lack of experience, fits the bill.
Indiana Pacers Gave McClung His First Real Chance
McClung has limited appearances with the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Orlando Magic under his belt.
For the most part, he only appeared when teams were decimated by injuries or the season was already decided. In short, it wouldn’t have mattered how well he played, he was just a warm body filling up a roster spot in meaningless games.
The Pacers added him near the start of the season, and with injuries to Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Kam Jones, and Bennedict Mathurin, among others, the backcourt is wide open for McClung.
This is his first real chance, and he’s made the most of it so far.
“He’s in very good condition for a guy that hasn’t played any games, any G League games or any NBA preseason games,” said Carlisle after McClung’s Pacers debut.
The Pacers need a durable player who can spend the year racking up major minutes. If McClung can find success, his NBA dream isn’t over yet.
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