Indiana Pacers President Kevin Pritchard has issued an apology to the team’s fans after the franchise lost its first-round draft pick as a result of the Ivica Zubac trade.
“I feel terrible for all of our fans. I take full responsibility for this risk. I was surprised that the pick ended up being fifth overall after this season. I thought it was time for us to get some luck. But please remember: this team deserves a starting center to compete with the best teams next year. We have always been resilient,” Pritchard wrote on his X social media account.
The Washington Wizards secured the No. 1 overall pick in the draft lottery.
Indiana finished the 2025–2026 season second to last in the NBA standings.
