Pacers To Honor Late Owner Simon

Friday is going to be a special night in the history of the Indiana Pacers as according to Cliff Brunt of the Associated Press, the team will honor late team co-owner Mel Simon with a jersey-hanging ceremony before the Pacers’ game against the Washington Wizards.

On Wednesday (today), the team said that the banner will hang alongside such Pacers greats such as Reggie Miller, Mel Daniels, Roger Brown, George McGinnis and ex-coach Bobby Leonard. Current team owner Herb Simon said that he expects the ceremony to be simple and dignified.

Simon, who passed away in September at the age of 82, bought the floundering – at that time – franchise with his brother Herb in 1983. One thing that can be said about Mel – which I have observed first-hand during my lengthy stay in Indianapolis during the 1980’s – is that he was one of the classiest individuals that I have had the pleasure of meeting.

He, along with his brother, were pretty hands-off in reference to their style of running a pro basketball franchise. They let everyone in upper management simply do their jobs; as a result, the team ascended to their greatest successes under their watch. And for that, I honor Mel. It is unfortunate that I will be unable to attend the ceremony and game as it will no doubt be an emotional night at Conseco Fieldhouse.