Basketball Players who Played for Trail Blazers and Pacers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Portland Trail Blazers and Indiana Pacers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Trail Blazers and the Pacers.
Jermaine O’Neal
Jermaine O’Neal is most recognized for his time with the Indiana Pacers. A versatile center and power forward, O’Neal’s career spanned 18 seasons from 1996 to 2014, during which he played for multiple teams, including the Trail Blazers, Heat, Celtics, Suns, and Warriors.
Selected directly out of high school by the Trail Blazers in the 1996 NBA Draft, O’Neal spent his initial seasons in a limited role. However, upon being traded to the Pacers, he flourished and became a key player, earning six All-Star selections and being named the NBA’s Most Improved Player for the 2001-02 season.
O’Neal’s prime years in Indiana were marked by consistent scoring and rebounding, as well as a robust defensive presence that earned him multiple All-NBA nods. Despite the individual accolades, team success eluded O’Neal, as the Pacers made several playoff appearances but never reached the NBA Finals during his tenure.
*O’Neal was previously the most popular pick for this square (Grid 3)
O’Neal Key Stats
- All NBA (Pacers)
- All-Star (Pacers)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Pacers)
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Pacers)
Dale Davis
Dale Davis, a key figure in the Indiana Pacers organization during the 90s, was known for his defensive prowess and rebounding ability in his NBA career that lasted from 1991 to 2007. The 6’11” power forward/center was drafted 13th overall by the Pacers in the 1991 NBA Draft out of Clemson, where he had been ACC Player of the Year.
Davis made an immediate impact with the Pacers, with his rebounding and shot-blocking playing a significant role in their success during the decade, including a run to the NBA Finals in 2000. Davis earned his only All-Star selection that season.
Over his 16-year career, Davis averaged 8 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, playing for the Pacers, Portland Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, and Detroit Pistons.
Davis Key Stats
- All-Star (Pacers)
- 10 Reb/Gm Season (Pacers)
Wesley Matthews
Undrafted out of Marquette University in 2009, Wesley Matthews earned a roster spot with the Utah Jazz, making an immediate impact with his play. After a successful stint in Utah, he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers where he solidified his reputation as one of the league’s best 3-and-D players.
He became a critical piece of the Blazers’ backcourt alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, particularly excelling in 3-point shooting. Matthews ruptured his Achilles tendon in 2015, a significant setback, but returned to play for the Mavericks and has since bounced around with different teams.
Despite the various team changes, his consistency as a shooter and defender has remained, offering valuable contributions in the regular season and playoffs.
Earl Watson
Earl Watson was a player who spent significant time in the NBA as a point guard and later transitioned into coaching. Known for his leadership, toughness, and basketball IQ, Watson carved out a steady career as a role player and floor general.
Watson was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the second round of the 2001 NBA Draft. Over the course of his playing career, he played for various NBA teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Indiana Pacers.
Though not a prolific scorer, Watson made his mark through his ability to distribute the ball, play solid defense, and provide leadership on and off the court.
Watson Key Stats
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Grizzlies, Supersonics, Thunder, Pacers)
