AMES, Iowa (KCRG) — Former Iowa State guard Tamin Lipsey signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Indiana Pacers following the 2026 NBA Draft. Lipsey, a native of Ames, said adjusting to the idea of leaving his hometown for the first time is still sinking in.
“It feels weird for sure,” Lipsey said. “Just getting out there and competing a little bit with the guys and the new team was fun — to feel like I’m back on the team, but ultimately that’s not the case. Just trying to stay in shape and get up and down and compete. Just get ready for this next opportunity.”
Lipsey finished his Iowa State career as the program’s all-time leader in steals with 313. His 137 career starts are the most in program history, and his 98 career wins rank second all-time.
He has remained in Ames working out with current Cyclones players ahead of his next chapter.
Lipsey is not the only Iowa State product in the Pacers organization. Tyrese Haliburton, who missed last season after tearing his Achilles, is one of the team’s marquee players.
Lipsey said he is looking forward to building on that shared Cyclone background with Haliburton.
“Just looking forward to building that relationship with him and seeing what he has to say,” Lipsey said. “Seeing what I can improve on or do to earn a spot, or continue to find my way.”
The Pacers face the Cleveland Cavaliers in their first NBA Summer League game Friday, July 10, in Las Vegas.
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