Pacers Sign Dunk Champion Mac McClung Amid Roster Injuries

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indiana Pacers signed guard Mac McClung on Tuesday as they cope with a wave of injuries to their backcourt. Details of the contract were not immediately disclosed.

McClung, who is known for winning the NBA Slam Dunk contest three times in a row, has spent much of his career in the G-League. The six-foot-two, 26-year-old has only averaged 5.5 points in six career NBA games with teams like the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers.

To create space for McClung, the Pacers waived former No. 2 draft pick James Wiseman. The move comes as the Pacers face multiple injuries to key players, including Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the season due to an Achilles injury.

Backup point guard T.J. McConnell is also sidelined with a hamstring injury, while starting guard Andrew Nembhard is recovering from shoulder pain. The team has struggled with depth early in the season, currently at 0-3.

McClung is expected to join the Pacers as they prepare for Wednesday’s matchup against Dallas. His past G-League success suggests he could provide the spark the team needs at this juncture.

Despite having a unique highlight reel, including his high school dunking abilities, McClung is seeking to establish himself in the NBA after going undrafted in 2021. His recent performances in the G-League show he can score effectively, having averaged nearly 20 points per game.

The Pacers are hoping McClung can contribute to their immediate needs while providing entertainment with his dunking abilities. The team looks to find its first victory as the season unfolds.