Quenton Jackson Inks Two-Way Deal With Pacers, Immediately Shows Value

Indiana Pacers guard Quenton Jackson has signed his fourth NBA two-way contract, returning to the Pacers for the third consecutive season during the 2025-26 offseason. The Pacers announced the signing earlier this week.

Jackson, who received a qualifying offer and was a restricted free agent, spent the entire 2024-25 season on a two-way deal with Indiana. Due to early-season injuries on the team, Jackson became a significant rotation player, appearing in 28 games and starting seven times. He averaged 5.8 points and 1.9 assists per game, scoring in double figures six times.

Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle praised Jackson's intensity, combative defense, rim attacking, and hard-playing style, emphasizing how Jackson plays within the system. Former Pacers center Myles Turner also commended Jackson's passion, energy, and work ethic in making a difference and working his way up. Jackson often took on challenging defensive assignments, holding up well due to his foot speed and fiery nature. The Pacers went 3-4 in his starts last season.

The Pacers re-signed Jackson based on his valuable contributions, noting this is his final season of two-way eligibility, making it a one-year contract. Shortly after signing, Jackson demonstrated his value in summer league play against the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the Pacers trailing significantly, Jackson led a comeback in the third quarter. In just 5 minutes and 26 seconds, he scored 12 points, added an assist, and recorded a steal, including a dunk, free throw, three-pointer, and two more finishes at the rim. This surge helped the Pacers cut a 13-point halftime deficit to just two points by the end of the third quarter. Jackson attributed the turnaround to increased intensity and matching the opponent's energy after halftime.