**The Indiana Pacers have secured a key piece of their future by re-signing Isaiah Jackson to a three-year, $21 million contract, a move that underscores their belief in the young big man’s potential. Jackson, who has shown flashes of brilliance during his tenure with the Pacers, is now locked in through the 2025-26 season, providing stability to a team looking to build around its emerging core. This deal comes after a season in which Jackson battled injuries but still demonstrated the athleticism, defensive versatility, and high-energy play that made him a first-round pick in 2021.**
Jackson’s journey to this contract extension has been one of resilience. After being selected 22nd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers and subsequently traded to the Pacers on draft night, the Kentucky product quickly became a fan favorite in Indiana. His shot-blocking ability, relentless motor, and explosive finishing around the rim made him an immediate contributor off the bench. However, his progress was hampered by injuries last season, including a nagging ankle issue that limited his availability. Despite these setbacks, the Pacers’ front office remained confident in his long-term value, leading to this new deal.
**The financial terms of the contract—$21 million over three years—reflect both Jackson’s upside and the Pacers’ cautious optimism.** At an average of $7 million per season, the deal is team-friendly while still rewarding Jackson for his development. Compared to other young big men in the league, this contract could prove to be a steal if Jackson continues to refine his game. His per-36-minute averages of 12.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks last season suggest he has the tools to be a impactful rotational big, if not a future starter.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jackson’s game is his defensive versatility. In an NBA that increasingly values switchable big men who can protect the rim and guard in space, Jackson’s athleticism allows him to contest shots at the rim while also staying in front of smaller players on the perimeter. His 7’2” wingspan and quick leaping ability make him a constant threat as a weak-side shot blocker, a skill that complements Myles Turner’s more stationary rim protection. If Jackson can stay healthy, he could form one of the league’s most formidable defensive frontcourts alongside Turner.
Offensively, Jackson is still a work in progress, but there are encouraging signs. He shot 60% from the field last season, primarily on dunks, lobs, and putbacks, showcasing his elite finishing ability. However, his lack of a reliable jump shot or post game limits his offensive ceiling for now. If he can develop even a mid-range jumper or improve his free-throw shooting (just 67% last season), he could become a more well-rounded offensive threat. The Pacers’ coaching staff has reportedly been working with him on expanding his offensive repertoire, and this new contract suggests they believe in his ability to grow.
**Another factor in the Pacers’ decision to extend Jackson is the team’s overall timeline.** With Tyrese Haliburton establishing himself as a franchise cornerstone and Bennedict Mathurin showing promise as a scoring wing, Indiana is assembling a young, athletic core. Jackson fits perfectly into this group as a high-energy big who can thrive in transition and provide defensive intensity. The Pacers are not in win-now mode, so they can afford to be patient with Jackson’s development while he learns alongside other young players.
The re-signing also signals that the Pacers are not planning to make any drastic moves in the frontcourt this offseason. There had been speculation that Turner could be traded, given his expiring contract and the team’s rebuilding status, but keeping Jackson suggests Indiana values continuity in its big-man rotation. Even if Turner is eventually moved, Jackson provides insurance as a potential long-term replacement at center.
**Of course, the biggest question mark surrounding Jackson is his health.** Injuries have been a recurring issue in his young career, and his playing style—high-flying, physical, and relentless—puts extra strain on his body. The Pacers will need to manage his minutes carefully and possibly adjust his training regimen to ensure he can stay on the court consistently. If he can avoid major injuries, this contract could look like a bargain in a year or two.
For Jackson, this deal is a vote of confidence. After a season filled with setbacks, the Pacers are betting on his potential to become a key part of their future. The $21 million commitment is a life-changing sum for the 21-year-old, but it also comes with expectations. Now that he has financial security, the focus shifts to proving he can stay healthy and take the next step in his development.
**Looking ahead, Jackson’s role for the upcoming season will likely be similar to last year’s—a backup big who provides energy, defense, and occasional highlight-reel plays.** However, if he can stay healthy and improve his offensive game, he could earn more minutes and possibly even challenge for a starting spot down the line. The Pacers’ faith in him suggests they see him as more than just a role player, and this contract could be the foundation for a breakout season.
In the broader context of the NBA, Jackson’s extension is a reminder of how teams are investing in young talent early, locking up players before they hit restricted free agency. The Pacers are following a trend seen across the league, where teams prioritize securing their own draft picks rather than risking losing them in competitive bidding wars later. At $7 million per year, Jackson’s contract carries minimal risk with significant upside.
**Ultimately, this deal is a win for both sides.** Jackson gets financial security and the chance to grow with a team that believes in him, while the Pacers add another piece to their young core at a reasonable cost. If Jackson stays healthy and continues to develop, this contract could be remembered as one of the better value signings of the offseason. For now, Pacers fans can celebrate the return of one of their most exciting young players as the team continues its rebuild with an eye toward the future.
