**‘We Believe We Can Compete With Anyone’: Rick Carlisle Talks Bold Mindset and Sky-High Confidence as Indiana Pacers Prepare for 2025 Season**
As the 2025 NBA season approaches, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is making one thing clear: this team is not backing down from anyone. Fresh off a promising playoff run and bolstered by internal development and smart offseason moves, the Pacers are entering the season with a renewed sense of belief and purpose.
“We believe we can compete with anyone,” Carlisle said during a recent media session. “This group has grown together, faced adversity, and come out stronger. That kind of experience builds confidence — not the arrogant kind, but the kind that’s earned through hard work and resilience.”
The Pacers surprised many during the 2024 season, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in over a decade. Led by rising star Tyrese Haliburton and a core that includes Bennedict Mathurin, Myles Turner, and Jarace Walker, Indiana displayed a fast-paced, team-first style that turned heads across the league. Carlisle, a veteran coach with a championship pedigree, sees the potential for even more growth.
“Our mindset has changed,” Carlisle continued. “We’re not just trying to make the playoffs. We’re aiming to contend. That requires discipline, focus, and belief — and I see that belief growing in our locker room every day.”
Indiana’s front office has made several key additions during the offseason to complement its young core, including versatile wing defenders and veteran leadership to bolster the bench. The mix of youth and experience has created a balanced roster with depth, athleticism, and flexibility — essential traits for a deep postseason run.
Carlisle emphasized that while confidence is high, the team isn’t taking anything for granted. “We know the East is loaded. Every night’s a battle. But we’re embracing the challenge. This team plays for each other, and when we’re locked in, we can hang with anybody.”
Fans in Indianapolis are feeling the buzz. With a reinvigorated roster, a respected coaching staff, and a clear vision, the Pacers are positioning themselves as serious contenders in 2025.
“We’re ready,” Carlisle said. “It’s going to be a fight, but we’re not afraid. We’re hungry, and we’re coming.”
With that kind of mindset, the Indiana Pacers may just be one of the most dangerous teams to watch in the NBA this season.
