The Indiana Pacers have moved swiftly following the conclusion of the 2026 NBA Draft, securing Iowa State point guard Tamin Lipsey with an Exhibit 10 contract. This agreement, reached Wednesday evening, ensures Lipsey an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during the upcoming Summer League and potentially earn a two-way or full-time NBA contract. In addition to Lipsey, the Pacers are bringing in at least five more players for their Summer League squad.

Lipsey, a four-year starter for the Cyclones, spent all four years with the Cyclones logging over 4,200 minutes played. In his senior season, he averaged 13.5 points and 5.0 assists per game. While his 31.6% shooting from beyond the arc in his final year might raise some eyebrows, Lipsey showed significant offensive growth, particularly in his two-point efficiency, converting 54.1% of those attempts. His career average for steals stands at 2.3 per game, making him one of college basketball's most disruptive backcourt defenders.

From a pure basketball perspective, Lipsey projects as a tenacious on-ball defender who thrives on creating live-ball turnovers. The Pacers' up-tempo offense under Tyrese Haliburton could benefit from Lipsey's ability to turn defense into instant offense. While his offensive game still needs refinement, particularly his perimeter shooting, his playmaking improved markedly in his senior year. The connection to Haliburton, who also played two seasons at Iowa State before being drafted in 2020 and has served as a mentor to Lipsey, is an interesting wrinkle, suggesting some internal advocacy for the undrafted guard.

This Exhibit 10 signing aligns with a common strategy for the Pacers, who are consistently looking to unearth hidden gems and build out their G-League affiliate. An Exhibit 10 deal offers a potential bonus if the player is waived and spends at least 60 days with the G-League team. This low-risk, potentially high-reward move allows Indiana to get a closer look at Lipsey in a competitive environment. The inclusion of other players for Summer League signals the front office's commitment to evaluating a wide range of talent.

Lipsey will now participate in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. His performance there will dictate whether he can parlay this Exhibit 10 contract into a two-way deal or even a standard NBA contract.