Indiana Pacers: Top 5 All-Time Rebounders - A Look Back at the Board Kings
The Indiana Pacers have a rich history filled with tough, gritty players. One area where they've consistently excelled is rebounding. You can't win in basketball without grabbing boards, and the Pacers have had some absolute monsters on the glass throughout their history. Let's take a trip down memory lane and check out the top 5 all-time rebounders for the Pacers.
5. Mel Daniels (1967-1975) - 6,349 Rebounds
Mel Daniels was a force in the paint for the Pacers, and his dominance on the boards earned him a spot on the All-ABA First Team five times. He was a true throwback, playing with physicality and a relentless desire to grab every rebound. You couldn't just outmuscle Mel, he was a beast!
4. Jermaine O'Neal (1999-2008) - 6,842 Rebounds
A dominant force for the Pacers during the 2000s, Jermaine O'Neal was an absolute force on the boards. His combination of size, athleticism, and hustle made him one of the best rebounders in the NBA. His best year was 2001-2002, where he averaged a ridiculous 11.4 rebounds per game!
3. Rik Smits (1988-1999) - 7,132 Rebounds
A fan favorite in Indiana, Rik Smits was a true center. He had the size and skillset to dominate in the paint, and his rebounding prowess was a key factor in the Pacers' success. He was a consistent force on the boards for over a decade, consistently giving opponents headaches in the paint.
2. Reggie Miller (1987-2005) - 8,009 Rebounds
Reggie Miller, the Pacers' all-time leading scorer, was also a fantastic rebounder. His dedication to the defensive glass, combined with his incredible length, made him a constant threat to snatch away rebounds. He was a true competitor, and his rebounding was a big part of the Pacers' success.
1. The Big Dog - 11,622 Rebounds
You knew this was coming, right? The undisputed king of the boards in Pacers history, "The Big Dog" is the epitome of a rebounding machine. His size and athleticism were unmatched, and his relentless pursuit of rebounds made him a force to be reckoned with. He averaged a career 12.8 rebounds per game, showing his dominance.
The Pacers have a rich history of great rebounders, and these five players are among the very best to ever wear the blue and gold. From Mel Daniels to Reggie Miller to the legend himself, "The Big Dog," these players set the standard for rebounding in Indiana. They made a mark on the Pacers' legacy, and their contributions to the team will never be forgotten.