BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Hit Great Gainbridge Fieldhouse stadium as former star player legend Rik Smits Popular known as (The Dunking Dutchman) has Returned to former team as a senior coaching….see more

Indianapolis, IN — Basketball fans in Indiana are celebrating today as the Indiana Pacers announced that franchise legend Rik Smits, affectionately known as “The Dunking Dutchman,” is officially returning to his former team in a new role as Senior Coach.

The news broke early this morning at a press conference held inside the iconic Gainbridge Fieldhouse, drawing cheers from devoted Pacers supporters who remember Smits as one of the most dominant big men in franchise history.

Smits, who played his entire 12-year NBA career with the Pacers from 1988 to 2000, was an All-Star in 1998 and helped lead Indiana to multiple deep playoff runs, including their first NBA Finals appearance in 2000. Known for his soft shooting touch, towering 7’4” frame, and fierce competitiveness, he earned the nickname “The Dunking Dutchman” and remains one of the most beloved figures in Pacers history.

Team President Kevin Pritchard praised the move, saying:

> “Bringing Rik back into the fold is a dream come true for this organization. His experience, leadership, and understanding of what it means to be a Pacer will be invaluable to our young players.”

In his new role as Senior Coach, Smits will work closely with the coaching staff to develop the team’s frontcourt players, offering mentorship on fundamentals, footwork, and post-play strategy. He is also expected to help foster a winning culture rooted in the team’s proud traditions.

Smits himself appeared emotional as he addressed the media:

> “Indiana is home for me. The Pacers gave me everything, and I want to give back. I’m thrilled to work with this talented group and help them achieve great things.”

Fans have already flooded social media with messages of support and nostalgia, sharing highlights of Smits’ signature turnaround jumpers, clutch playoff performances, and his famous battles with the NBA’s biggest stars of the 1990s.

The Pacers hope the move will not only honor their storied past but help propel the current squad toward a brighter future.

Stay tuned for more updates onthis developing story.