INDIANAPOLIS — The owner of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Herb Simon, was selected for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
Simon, the longest-tenured owner in NBA history, was named a finalist under the Contributors category in February, recognizing those who have been vital in growing basketball worldwide. Simon, along with his brother Mel, purchased the Pacers in 1983.
“As the longest-standing governor in NBA history, a founding member of the WNBA, and a former Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors, Herb Simon has been instrumental in every significant NBA and WNBA development over the past four decades,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
“While Herb has never sought credit for his truly influential role, it is wonderful to see his steady leadership and service to the game of basketball recognized by the Hall of Fame.”
He will join Pacers icons Reggie Miller, George McGinnis, Bobby “Slick” Leonard, Roger Brown, and Mel Daniels along with Indiana Fever legend Tamika Catchings in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
“For decades, Herb has been a model owner in the NBA, as well as one of its most respected voices,” said Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard. “He cares deeply not only about our franchise but about the future of our sport and our League, and there is no one is more deserving of this amazing recognition.”
The Naismith Hall of Fame Class of 2024 will be recognized at the halftime of Saturday's NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament semifinal game between Purdue and North Carolina State.
Simon will be inducted in Springfield, Massachusetts, on Aug. 16-17.