Ivica Zubac, the new center for the Indiana Pacers, has historically not been known for shooting from beyond the arc, making just one three-pointer in nearly a decade-long NBA career and none since 2021. Despite this, he is preparing to develop his three-point shot as part of the Pacers’ strategy to enhance their offense this season.
Zubac explained that he expects to spend more time positioned in the corner of the court, a shift away from his usual spot near the basket where he often looks to dunk.
“I’m gonna be in the corner a lot more than in the (dunker spot),”
Zubac said.
“I’m used to being in the dunker when I want the ball, but that’s something he doesn’t want. He wants me to be in the corner and if I get the ball to go into the next action, into a hand-off or a step-up and play out of that. … Spacing out to the corner is going to be something new, but I’m looking forward to it.”
Although Zubac has not frequently attempted three-pointers previously, he believes in his ability to shoot from long range.
“I always thought I could shoot that shot,”
he remarked.
“I obviously didn’t get a lot of chances to do it with the Clippers, but I always worked on it and wanted to shoot it but never had a chance. We’ll see how open he will be for that. If that’s what they want me to do, I have the rest of the season and the whole summer to work on it and be ready for next year.”
The Impact of Zubac’s Potential Three-Point Improvement on the Pacers
Zubac’s value to the Pacers is undeniable, even without a strong outside shot. Renowned for his defensive skills, he ranked sixth in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season and earned All-Defensive Second Team honors. His averages this season include 14.4 points on 61.3% shooting, 11 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 43 games, making him one of the NBA’s premier interior presences both offensively and defensively.
Despite his defensive dominance, the Pacers’ offense has missed the floor-stretching ability of former center Myles Turner, who left last summer. Turner’s perimeter shooting—he made nearly 40% of his three-point attempts last season on over five attempts per game—was a key asset for Indiana’s offensive spacing. While Zubac is unlikely to match that level of three-point shooting volume or efficiency, even modest improvements in this area could enhance the Pacers’ offensive schemes.
With Tyrese Haliburton’s return looming, Zubac’s expanded skill set could make the Pacers a more versatile and threatening team. His ability to contribute as a floor spacer alongside his existing strengths could significantly shift Indiana’s dynamic on offense and defense.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Growth and Team Evolution
Ivica Zubac’s willingness to develop a three-point shot presents an intriguing opportunity for the Pacers to diversify their offense and create new strategic options. His adaptation to a corner shooting role could open up lanes and generate more effective spacing that Indiana lacked after Turner’s departure. Coaches and fans alike will be watching closely to see how Zubac’s shooting evolves during the current season and into the offseason.
Ultimately, Zubac’s three-point development could mark a turning point for his career and the Pacers’ trajectory, especially as Indiana aims to build around key pieces and improve its competitive standing in the Eastern Conference.
