Indiana Pacers fans have a new reason to be optimistic: Isaiah Jackson, the athletic big man sidelined by a devastating Achilles injury last season, is not only back—he’s locked in as a core piece of the team’s future. After months of uncertainty, Jackson has agreed to a three-year, $21 million deal to remain with the Pacers, setting the stage for a dramatic comeback and a potential breakout year.
From Injury Heartbreak to Opportunity
Jackson’s 2024-25 campaign was cut short after just five games when he tore his right Achilles tendon in November—a blow that left Indiana’s frontcourt dangerously thin. The injury came at the worst possible time, with fellow big man James Wiseman also suffering a season-ending Achilles tear just weeks earlier. For Jackson, it was a crushing setback after showing flashes of promise, averaging 7.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in limited minutes before going down.
But the 23-year-old has been relentless in his rehab. According to Pacers insider Tony East, Jackson now says he’s “80 to 90 percent healthy” and expects to be fully ready for the start of training camp. His determination has not gone unnoticed by the Pacers’ front office, who rewarded his potential and perseverance with a new contract that signals their faith in his future.
A New Era in Indiana’s Frontcourt
The timing of Jackson’s return couldn’t be better. With longtime starter Myles Turner departing in free agency, the Pacers suddenly have a glaring need at center—and Jackson is poised to seize the opportunity. Indiana has brought in Jay Huff and James Wiseman (on a non-guaranteed deal) for depth, but Jackson is now the clear favorite to anchor the paint if healthy.
The Pacers’ roster is otherwise stable, with four of five starters under contract and the team coming off a deep playoff run that ended just shy of an NBA Finals berth. The expectation is that Jackson, a former first-round pick, will finally get the extended minutes and responsibility he’s been waiting for since entering the league in 2021.
Preseason Progress and High Hopes
Jackson has already begun making headlines in the preseason, discussing his progress and readiness to contribute at a higher level. With his athleticism, shot-blocking, and improved offensive game, he could be a difference-maker for a Pacers squad looking to build on last year’s momentum.
What’s Next for Jackson and the Pacers?
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Jackson is expected to be fully cleared for training camp and is the frontrunner for the starting center role.
- The Pacers’ faith in Jackson is clear, but the team has also added depth to hedge against any setbacks.
- If Jackson can stay healthy, he could be one of the league’s most intriguing breakout candidates in 2025-26.
Takeaways: A Comeback Story to Watch
Isaiah Jackson’s journey from injury to a new contract and a starting opportunity is one of the NBA’s most compelling comeback stories this offseason. With the Pacers betting big on his upside, all eyes will be on Jackson as he looks to turn potential into production—and help Indiana chase another deep playoff run.
Sources
1. Isaiah Jackson Eyes Strong Return After Achilles Recovery - YouTube
2. NBA offseason 2025: Draft, free agency, trade targets for 30 teams
3. Isaiah Jackson News, Rumors, Updates - Indiana Pacers - FOX Sports
4. How DeFi Helps Marginalized Communities with Isaiah Jackson ...
5. Isaiah Jackson discusses his preseason progress
6. [PDF] Feature Clips
7. Isaiah Jackson: Player News - NBC Sports
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