After spending a full decade with the Indiana Pacers, Myles Turner has finally broken his silence about the unexpected decision that led him to sign with the Milwaukee Bucks.
An Emotional Goodbye to the Circle City
Turner, who secured a four-year, $108.9 million deal with Milwaukee just weeks ago, took to Instagram with a heartfelt message that had Pacers fans reaching for tissues. The post chronicled his transformation from that eager kid out of Bedford, Texas, into the seasoned pro Indianapolis came to love. \”You watched me grow up, both as a player and as a person,\” Turner wrote, his words carrying the weight of a decade’s worth of memories. He made sure to highlight the accountability, support, and genuine affection that characterized his Indiana years.
The Drive to Stay Championship-Ready
When Milwaukee introduced their new big man to the media, Turner didn’t mince words about what drove his decision. The chance to stay competitive at the sport’s pinnacle was simply too good to pass up. He pointed to the Bucks’ recent playoff runs – that finals appearance last year, plus their conference finals push the season before. \”Playing for a championship-caliber team completely changed my perspective on this league,\” Turner explained to the assembled reporters, his voice carrying conviction about chasing titles.
A Decade of Growth and Impact
The Pacers picked Turner 11th overall back in 2015, and the 29-year-old from Texas has since carved out a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable rim protectors. His ability to step out and knock down threes has made him a modern center’s dream – he’s shooting a career 39.6 percent from deep, which is nothing short of impressive for a big man. Turner was instrumental in that magical Pacers run to Game 7 of the NBA Finals, though he struggled somewhat in those final contests, managing only modest scoring and rebounding numbers. Still, his regular season production last year – 15.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game – showed he remained a consistent contributor.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Turner’s farewell message didn’t forget anyone who mattered during his Indianapolis journey. He thanked local businesses, teammates, coaches, and the entire Pacers organization. The fans received special recognition – Turner acknowledged spending more time with them over the years than with his own family, which speaks volumes about the bond he felt with the city. The two-time blocks champion ended his post on an upbeat note: \”See you soon,\” suggesting the relationships he built won’t simply disappear.
This move closes one chapter of Turner’s career while opening another with the Bucks, where he’ll look to help Milwaukee make another serious run at NBA championship glory.
