CONGRATULATIONS: Indiana Pacers legend Reggie Miller has officially been named one of the all-time greats.
Congratulations are in order for one of basketball’s most iconic figures, as Indiana Pacers legend Reggie Miller continues to receive the recognition he has long deserved. A staple of NBA history, Miller’s name is now etched even deeper into the sport’s lore, as he has been officially named one of the all-time greats. While accolades have never been the driving force behind Miller’s passion for the game, the honor is a resounding confirmation of a legacy built on excellence, resilience, and unforgettable moments that transcended the hardwood.
For decades, Reggie Miller stood as the heartbeat of the Indiana Pacers. Drafted 11th overall in 1987 out of UCLA, the selection was met with skepticism by many fans who had hoped the team would draft Indiana Hoosiers star Steve Alford. Yet from the moment Miller stepped onto the court, it was clear that he was on a mission to prove the doubters wrong—and he did so with relentless tenacity, an elite shooting touch, and an unwavering competitive fire. Over the course of an 18-year career spent entirely with the Pacers, Miller became synonymous with clutch performances and three-point prowess, evolving into one of the most feared shooters in NBA history.
Miller’s place among the game’s elite is not simply a matter of statistics, although those certainly tell a compelling story. With 25,279 career points, he remains the all-time leading scorer in Pacers franchise history. He retired as the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made, a record he held until Ray Allen surpassed him, and now continues to inspire the modern generation of sharpshooters, including players like Stephen Curry, who have redefined the three-point shot in today’s game. Miller’s influence on how the game is played cannot be overstated. He was ahead of his time, a trailblazer whose range and quick release forced defenses to rethink their approach.
But beyond the numbers lies the spirit of a player who refused to back down from any challenge. Perhaps no moment encapsulates this better than his legendary performance at Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks in the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals. With the Pacers trailing by six points and less than 20 seconds remaining, Miller scored eight points in nine seconds—stealing an inbounds pass, hitting a three, sinking two free throws, and then drilling another three-pointer to stun the crowd and seal one of the most miraculous comebacks in NBA playoff history. That single sequence not only cemented Miller’s reputation as a clutch performer but also gave birth to the nickname “The Knick Killer,” a title he wore with pride throughout his career.
Miller’s rivalry with the Knicks defined an era. His duels with stars like Patrick Ewing, John Starks, and Charles Oakley were battles of grit and pride, with each game carrying the weight of bad blood and big stakes. It wasn’t just basketball—it was theater, and Reggie was the lead actor. He thrived under pressure, feeding off the jeers and boos from opposing fans, especially those in New York, whom he relished antagonizing. His infamous choking gesture aimed at Spike Lee during a playoff game remains one of the most iconic images in NBA history, a symbol of his fearless bravado and showmanship.
Despite never winning an NBA championship, Miller’s impact on the game has been nothing short of monumental. He led the Pacers to the playoffs 15 times in 18 seasons, including an appearance in the 2000 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. While Indiana fell short in that series, Miller’s leadership and scoring prowess kept the Pacers competitive throughout. His loyalty to the franchise, even during the lean years, speaks volumes about his character and dedication. In an era when players frequently change teams in pursuit of a title, Miller’s commitment to Indiana stands as a testament to his values.
Being named one of the all-time greats is not merely about on-court achievements—it’s also about how a player carried themselves, inspired others, and left the game better than they found it. Miller checks every one of those boxes. His work ethic, professionalism, and mentorship have earned him widespread respect from peers and fans alike. Following his retirement, Miller seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, bringing his insights, passion, and charisma to a new generation of fans as a TNT analyst. His voice has become a staple of NBA coverage, continuing his influence on the game even from the sidelines.
Reggie Miller’s inclusion among the game’s legends is also a victory for the city of Indianapolis and the Pacers organization. Before Miller’s arrival, the Pacers were struggling to establish a lasting identity in the NBA. Miller changed that. His success brought national attention to the team, elevated the profile of basketball in Indiana, and inspired a wave of fans who saw in him the embodiment of grit, determination, and heart. He put the Pacers on the map and gave them an identity that endures to this day.
For the fans who watched him grow from a skinny rookie into one of the game’s fiercest competitors, this recognition is more than just a personal milestone for Miller—it’s a shared celebration. It’s a reminder of all the unforgettable nights spent watching him drain impossible threes, taunt opponents with a sly smile, and put the team on his back in the biggest moments. It’s a tribute to the hours of joy he gave to the game, the battles fought, and the memories etched into NBA folklore.
What makes Miller’s story even more inspiring is how he overcame adversity long before he made it to the league. Born with hip deformities that required him to wear leg braces as a child, few would have predicted he’d one day become a world-class athlete. But that’s what makes Reggie Miller’s journey so remarkable. Every step of the way, he defied expectations—whether it was walking, running, making the NBA, or becoming a Hall of Famer. His career has always been a story of perseverance and proving people wrong.
This latest honor adds another layer to his incredible legacy. While he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, being named among the all-time greats is a rarer distinction, one that places him in the most elite company in basketball history. It’s a recognition not just of what he did, but of what he meant. Reggie Miller didn’t just play the game—he impacted it, shaped it, and became part of its very fabric.
As the game continues to evolve, Reggie Miller’s name remains a benchmark. Young players study his footwork, his off-ball movement, his lightning-quick release. Coaches still reference his ability to perform under pressure. Fans still reminisce about his iconic moments. And the NBA, as an institution, continues to honor his contributions, ensuring that new generations understand the magnitude of what he accomplished.
There is something timeless about greatness. It transcends eras, systems, and styles. Reggie Miller’s greatness lies not only in his statistics or highlights but in the way he made people feel when they watched him play. There was always the sense that something special could happen, that no lead was safe, and that the game wasn’t over until he said it was. That unpredictability, that magic—that’s what separates the very best from the rest.
As we reflect on his career and this latest accolade, one truth stands clear: Reggie Miller belongs in every conversation about the NBA’s elite. His name deserves to be spoken alongside the greatest to ever play the game. And now, with this recognition, that legacy is officially enshrined.
From his first bucket in Market Square Arena to his final game in Conseco Fieldhouse, Miller has given everything to the game he loves. And in return, the game now gives him his flowers. It’s a celebration long overdue, yet perfectly timed. Because legends never fade—they only grow with time. And Reggie Miller’s legend has never shined brighter.
