All-Time Pacers: Top 5 Rebounders

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Post on Oct 26, 2024

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The Boards Are Ours: Top 5 Pacers Rebounders of All Time

The Indiana Pacers have a rich history of tough, gritty players who weren't afraid to get their hands dirty. And what better way to show that grit than with a monster rebounding performance? The Pacers have had some absolute beasts on the boards throughout the years, guys who could snatch a rebound from anyone and make sure their team got second-chance opportunities.

So, let's dive into the top 5 all-time rebounders in Pacers history, and celebrate these guys who were the unsung heroes of the game.

5. Jermaine O'Neal (2000-2008)

Remember the "Big O"? Jermaine O'Neal wasn't just a scoring threat. He was a rebounding machine and a force in the paint. He was the heart of the Pacers during their "golden era" in the early 2000s, and his relentless energy on the boards was a big reason why. O'Neal finished his Pacers career with 5,399 total rebounds, a respectable number for a big man.

4. Mel Daniels (1969-1975)

Mel Daniels, the "Big Easy", was the first dominant big man in Pacers history and was a force to be reckoned with. He was a** gifted scorer** and a dominant rebounder, leading the league in rebounds in 1971 and making the All-NBA first team. He helped the Pacers win their first ABA title in 1970 and holds the franchise record with 6,280 total rebounds.

3. Rik Smits (1988-1998)

Standing at 7'4" tall, Rik Smits was an imposing presence in the paint. He was a consistent scoring threat, but he was also a solid rebounder and a big reason for the Pacers' success in the 90s. Smits finished his career with 6,492 total rebounds, a number that's pretty impressive for a guy who wasn't exactly a "rebound-first" player.

2. Tom Chambers (1988-1993)

Tom Chambers was a journeyman player who ended up playing 16 seasons in the NBA, but he made his mark with the Pacers. He was a high-scoring forward who also had a knack for grabbing rebounds. Chambers collected 5,357 total rebounds in his five seasons with the Pacers, showing his versatility and durability.

1. The King of the Boards: "Big" Chuck Person (1986-1991)

Chuck Person, affectionately known as "The Rifleman", was a scoring machine who could also rebound with the best of them. He was the epitome of the versatile power forward and his rebounding numbers are a testament to his unwavering effort. He finished with 6,550 total rebounds, a franchise record that stands tall today.

These five players helped define the Indiana Pacers for a generation. They made their mark on the game with hustle, grit, and a relentless pursuit of the basketball. And their contributions on the boards are a lasting legacy of the team's history.