Myles Turner is leaving Indianapolis, but not without leaving behind a heartfelt message.
Turner penned an emotional farewell message to the Pacers and its fanbase after his surprising decision to join the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency.
“Saying goodbye is never easy, especially so abruptly. It’s hard to put into words what the past 10 seasons and the past 10 years of my life have meant to me,” the 29-year-old wrote on Instagram.
His departure came as a shock to many, especially considering the Pacers are coming off a magical Finals run that ended in a Game 7 heartbreak to eventual champions Oklahoma City Thunder.
Milwaukee, needing to create cap space to sign Turner to a four-year, $108.9 million contract, stunned the league by waiving All-Star point guard Damian Lillard to make the move possible.
This shift didn’t just strengthen the Bucks’ roster — it also dealt a blow to their Central Division rivals who lost a key contributor and locker room leader. The Pacers have eliminated the Bucks in their last two playoff series encounters.
But Turner, who entered the league in 2015 as the Pacers’ 11th overall pick, acknowledged the challenges the team faced over the years — from rebuilding phases to playoff runs — and how they shaped him both as a player and a person.
Throughout his tenure in Indiana, he made the All-Rookie Second Team, became a two-time blocks champion, and made seven playoff appearances.
Turner also made sure to thank the Pacers' fans who supported him through thick and thin.
“You packed the Fieldhouse, rocked with us on the road, lifted me when I needed it most, and held me accountable when I needed that too,” Turner wrote. “Man… I’ve damn near spent more time with y’all than I’ve gotten to spend with my own family over the years.”
Despite the end of his chapter in Indiana, Turner reaffirmed his love for the city.
“I’ve been proud to call myself a Hoosier!” he said. “I hope you continue to embrace me as much as I’ve always embraced you!”
