ESPN REPORT: The Indiana pacers have honored the legendary Lee Roy Selmon by elevating his status within the franchise, a recognition that underscores his monumental impact on the team……..see more  

Indianapolis, IN – July 2, 2025* — In a heartfelt and historic move, the Indiana Pacers have posthumously honored the late Lee Roy Selmon by elevating his status within the franchise, a recognition that underscores his monumental impact on the team and the broader sports community.

Though Selmon is widely celebrated for his Hall of Fame career in the NFL as a defensive lineman with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his influence reached far beyond the gridiron. In recent years, the Pacers have acknowledged Selmon’s behind-the-scenes role in shaping the team’s culture, leadership ethos, and commitment to community involvement.

**A Surprising but Significant Tribute**

While Selmon never suited up in a Pacers jersey, team owner Herb Simon described him as a “quiet architect” of the franchise’s off-court legacy. “Lee Roy was a mentor, a counselor, and a moral compass for many of our players and executives,” Simon said during a tribute ceremony at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “His values—integrity, humility, and service—are deeply woven into the DNA of this franchise.”

The ceremony featured remarks from former Pacers players, NBA executives, and Selmon’s family members. A commemorative banner bearing Selmon’s name and the words *”Legacy of Leadership”* will now hang in the rafters, an honor typically reserved for players and coaches.

**A Broader Legacy**

Selmon, who passed away in 2011, was known not just for his athletic prowess but also for his post-football contributions to sports administration and education. His legacy at the University of South Florida as athletic director and his efforts to promote diversity in sports leadership were frequently cited by speakers at the event.

“This honor is unusual, but Lee Roy Selmon was no ordinary man,” said Pacers president Kevin Pritchard. “He had a unique ability to inspire greatness in others, even outside of football.”

**Community First**

In conjunction with the honor, the Pacers announced the launch of the *Selmon Leadership Initiative*, a new program aimed at mentoring young athletes in underserved communities throughout Indiana. Funded jointly by the franchise and the NBA Foundation, the initiative will focus on leadership development, academic achievement, and social responsibility.

Selmon’s widow, Claybra Selmon, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family. “Lee Roy believed that sports were a platform for change,” she said. “He would be deeply humbled to know that his spirit continues to inspire this generation of leaders.”

**Uncharted but Meaningful Territory**

While it’s uncommon for an NBA franchise to honor a figure rooted primarily in another sport, the Pacers’ decision has been widely praised by sports analysts and fans alike. ESPN’s own Michael Wilbon commented, “This is the kind of gesture that reminds us what sports are really about—character, influence, and community impact.”

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