Pacers owner Herb Simon elected to Basketball HOF

Pacers owner Herb Simon has been named to the Basketball HOF, 41 years after he and his brother Melvin bought the team. Simon, 89, is the longest-tenured owner in the NBA. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said, “What an amazing honor for an amazing man.” The Pacers’ players were “thrilled to see the honor for Simon as well.” The Pacers have never won an NBA title, but during Simon’s ownership, they have “been one of the most consistently successful franchises in the league.” Simon recently sold 15% of the team to billionaire Stephen Rales, but he “still owns a majority interest.” He has said that he “intends to keep the team in the family” and that his son Steven Simon “will be his eventual heir” (INDIANAPOLIS STAR, 4/5). The 13 inductees in the Class of 2024 will be celebrated during this year’s Enshrinement festivities on Aug 16-17. Those making it in on votes from the Contributors Committee are Simon; former player and coach Doug Collins; and former player, coach and exec Jerry West (Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame).