Pacers Re-sign Tony Bradley to Second 10-Day Contract Amid Roster Changes

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Pacers have signed center Tony Bradley to a second 10-day contract as of March 13, 2025, following the expiration of his initial deal the previous day. Bradley’s return comes as the Pacers navigate a challenging season marked by injuries at the center position.

Bradley made his mark during his first contract, appearing in four games and contributing 6 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 assist in just under 10 minutes total. The Pacers finished with a 3-3 record during this stretch. Head coach Rick Carlisle praised Bradley’s defensive effort, stating, “I thought Tony played some of the best defense of the entire half from the five position.”

His most notable performance came in a matchup against the Chicago Bulls, where he scored 6 points in under eight minutes of play. Despite limited playing time during his initial stint, the Pacers are looking to him as a crucial asset given their depleted roster. “Happy to be here. Enjoying the moment… staying ready,” Bradley said about his return to the NBA.

Bradley’s signing fills a vital gap for the Pacers, who have faced injuries to both Isaiah Jackson and Myles Turner, necessitating the addition of depth in the center position. The Pacers have had to be strategic with their roster decisions, previously signing Jahlil Okafor before choosing to retain Bradley for additional support.

“His value to Indiana is more about his size and what he represents,” noted Carlisle. Bradley has become an essential third center, as starting center Turner and backup Thomas Bryant continue to be the primary options for the team this season.

The buyout market yielded limited options for centers, with available players like Mo Bamba and Cody Zeller finding new homes elsewhere. Meanwhile, Bradley, the 28th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, spent last season outside the league, making his recent re-entry notable.

The upcoming days will be crucial for Bradley, as the Pacers must decide by March 22 whether to extend his contract for the remainder of the season or explore other options. The team currently sits $2 million under the luxury tax and is capable of signing one final player without exceeding that limit.

As the regular season reaches its conclusion, keeping Bradley would ensure the Pacers have the necessary depth for playoff contention. “Most importantly, just my confidence,” he said regarding his growth while away from the game. “Just continue to work and do different things that I need to work on.”

Bradley will have 10 days to solidify his position on the Pacers’ roster, as they consider the next steps in an ever-evolving lineup.