Indiana Pacers Face Uncertainty with Tyrese Haliburton; Fans and Analysts Call for Caitlin Clark in Upcoming NBA Draft

Top Plays of the Day, August 5, 2025

The Indiana Pacers are bracing for a challenging season ahead as their star guard Tyrese Haliburton is expected to miss the entire 2025/26 NBA season due to a severe injury. In light of this, some voices in the basketball community have sparked a heated debate on social media about whether the Pacers should use their upcoming second-round draft pick to select Caitlin Clark, the electrifying guard from the Indiana Fever in the WNBA.

Haliburton’s Injury Leaves Pacers in a Bind

Haliburton, one of the brightest young talents in the NBA, suffered a torn Achilles tendon during Game 7 of the NBA Finals last Sunday. He underwent surgery promptly but faces a lengthy recovery period that will almost certainly keep him off the court for the entirety of next season. His absence leaves a significant hole in the Pacers’ backcourt, forcing the franchise to explore alternative options to fill the void.

The 24-year-old guard has been instrumental in Indiana’s offense, known for his exceptional playmaking skills, court vision, and clutch performances. Losing him is a massive blow to the team’s chances of competing in what promises to be a highly competitive Eastern Conference in 2025/26.

Enter Caitlin Clark: WNBA Star and Ticket Seller Extraordinaire

On the other side of the basketball world, Caitlin Clark has taken the WNBA by storm since being drafted by the Indiana Fever last year. Known for her dazzling scoring ability, deep shooting range, and leadership on the floor, Clark has become a major draw for fans. The Fever have reportedly sold out arenas consistently when she plays, generating excitement and significantly boosting ticket sales and merchandise.

Her impact on and off the court has not gone unnoticed. Some social media commentators and basketball insiders are suggesting that with the Pacers’ predicament, the team should consider selecting Clark with their second-round pick in Thursday’s NBA Draft. This proposal has ignited intense discussions online, with opinions ranging from enthusiastic support to outright skepticism.

The “Outrageous” Proposal Gains Traction

Eric Sollenberger, better known as PFT Commenter, recently proposed this idea in a video that quickly went viral. He called the notion “absurd” but also hinted at the potential game-changing impact Clark could have if given the chance. His comment was meant to be lighthearted but sparked genuine debate.

Many fans echoed his sentiments, noting the cultural and financial benefits Caitlin Clark brings to Indiana sports. One commenter wrote, “Maybe with CC (Caitlin Clark), the real pace driver will finally get a call-up,” highlighting her dynamic style of play.

Others pointed to precedent: “If Bronny James can be drafted to sell tickets, then certainly Caitlin can,” said a fan, referencing LeBron James’ son and his high-profile basketball career prospects.

Ownership Overlap Fuels Speculation

An interesting twist in this conversation is the fact that Herb Simon owns both the Indiana Pacers and the Indiana Fever. This unique ownership connection has fans speculating that Simon might be inclined to use his NBA team’s pick to boost cross-promotion and capitalize on Caitlin Clark’s popularity. A fan pointed out, “Herb Simon owns both teams. He sold out arenas the moment Caitlin started playing for the Fever.”

Such an unprecedented move could shake up traditional draft strategies, blending marketing savvy with basketball decisions.

Historical Context: Women Drafted in the NBA

Though it might sound revolutionary, the idea of an NBA team drafting a woman isn’t entirely without precedent. In 1977, the New Orleans Jazz selected Lusia Harris, a legendary female basketball player from Delta State University, in the seventh round of the NBA Draft. Harris was pregnant at the time and never played in the NBA, but her selection broke gender barriers.

That same year, the Kansas City Kings drafted Bruce Jenner (now Caitlyn Jenner), the Olympic gold medal-winning decathlete, not as a player but as a promotional figure. Jenner never played professionally for the team.

In 1969, the San Francisco Warriors attempted to draft Denise Long, a female high school phenom, but the NBA vetoed the pick, citing the rule against drafting women at the time.

Current NBA Rules and Gender Eligibility

Today, the NBA’s draft rules do not explicitly prohibit the drafting of female players. Eligibility is based on age and education rather than gender. Teams can technically select any player, including those currently active in other professional leagues like the WNBA.

Therefore, there is no regulatory barrier to a team drafting Caitlin Clark if they so choose. However, practical considerations such as league competition, physicality differences, and contractual obligations usually prevent such moves.

What Would Drafting Caitlin Clark Mean?

Drafting Clark would be a bold and symbolic statement in the sports world, signaling a potential shift toward greater inclusivity and recognition of women’s basketball talent at the highest levels. It would also bring unprecedented media attention to both the NBA and WNBA, possibly encouraging more cross-league collaboration.

For the Pacers, it would mean taking a risk on a player who has never competed in the NBA before but who brings immense talent, star power, and fan engagement potential.

Fans and Analysts Are Divided

The social media debate has showcased a wide spectrum of opinions. Supporters argue that Clark could revolutionize the game, inspire a new generation, and fill the Pacers’ backcourt gap creatively.

Critics contend the idea is unrealistic from a competitive standpoint and point to differences in league play styles, physical demands, and contract complexities.

One skeptical fan joked, “The moment someone screens her, she might have to sit out the entire season!” referring to concerns about the physicality of the NBA compared to the WNBA.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Pacers and Clark?

The NBA Draft’s second round is set for Thursday night, and the Pacers hold a pick that could become one of the most talked-about selections in recent years. Whether they choose Caitlin Clark or go a more traditional route remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark continues to shine in the WNBA, building her legacy as one of the league’s brightest stars and a powerful advocate for women’s sports.

For now, the idea of a crossover from WNBA superstar to NBA draft pick remains a fascinating “what if”—a scenario that has already captured the imagination of basketball fans nationwi