Rick Carlisle Excited For Second Spell as Pacers Coach

Rick Carlisle is returning for a second spell as coach of the Indiana Pacers after resigning from the Dallas Mavericks. 

His 13 year spell as Mavericks coach comes to an end at a time of change for the organization. Rick Carlisle announced his resignation one day after president Donnie Nelson left the Mavericks.

Rick Carlisle had the most wins in Dallas history, with a record of 555-478. He led the Mavericks to their only championship in 2011.

Carlisle previously coached for the Pacers from 2003 – 2007. Then, he made the playoffs three times.

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“You never want to get to a point where you ever feel like you’re overstaying your welcome, and I just felt like this is the right time,” Carlisle said Thursday. “I just have such great respect for [Mavs owner Mark Cuban] and everyone there, and I’m fortunate to move on to another great opportunity.”

Last season, the Pacers were eliminated in the new play-in tournament. As a result, their 5 year playoff run was ended and coach Nate Bjorkgren was fired.

“It’s an exciting situation because there’s upside here,” said Carlisle. “Getting back healthy is going to be a big part of that.

“[General manager Kevin Pritchard] and I have talked extensively about the roster. I like their roster. It’s a team of skilled, unselfish guys that play hard. It’s always possible that moves could be made before the season, but I think Kevin and I are both very excited about getting the roster healthy and seeing what this team can be.”

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Carlisle’s deal with the Indiana Pacers runs for for years and is worth $29 million, according to ESPN. As a sign of the relationship between him and owner Mark Cuban, the Mavericks did not ask for compensation from Indiana, despite the fact Carlisle had two years left on his contract.