Darian DeVries Can’t Even Congratulate the Man Who Helped Him Land the Indiana Job

Darian DeVries Can’t Even Congratulate the Man Who Helped Him Land the Indiana Job

 

NBA CONTROVERSY: Darian DeVries Can’t Even Congratulate the Man Who Helped Him Land the Indiana Job in a shocking twist following the Indiana Pacers’ appointment of Darian DeVries as their new head coach, reports have surfaced that the former Drake and Creighton coach *refused to publicly acknowledge or congratulate* the very man whose departure made his hiring possible: **Mark Daigneault**.

 

According to insiders within the Pacers organization, DeVries has maintained radio silence regarding Daigneault—despite the fact that Daigneault’s sudden and high-profile exit to Oklahoma City opened the path for DeVries to land the most prestigious job of his career.

 

### **Background: A Job Opened by Sacrifice**

 

Mark Daigneault, known for his transformative tenure with the Oklahoma City Thunder, shocked the league earlier this month by walking away from the Indiana Pacers’ head coaching position after just six weeks. His reason, though kept vague, was said to be a mix of personal and philosophical differences with Pacers’ upper management.

 

Sources close to the situation claim that DeVries was “the front office’s second choice,” but benefited enormously from Daigneault stepping aside. Many believed a word of gratitude—or at least recognition—was in order.

 

But DeVries? Silence.

 

### **League Reactions: “Cold,” “Disrespectful,” and “Uncalled For”**

 

The basketball community hasn’t been quiet.

 

Veteran analyst Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back on ESPN’s *First Take*:

 

> *“Look, I don’t care if it’s politics or pride. If someone clears the path for you, the *bare minimum* is a thank-you. Darian DeVries is acting like this job just fell from the heavens.”*

 

Former player and coach Juwan Howard added:

 

> *“Mark helped build a foundation in Indiana. Whether you liked his style or not, he was well-respected. For Darian to step in without even acknowledging that? That’s not how this league works.”*

 

Even Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton reportedly found the move “odd” and “a little cold,” according to sources close to the team.

 

### **DeVries Defends Himself**

 

Pressed by reporters during his introductory press conference, DeVries responded to the criticism:

 

> *“Look, I have nothing but respect for Mark and what he’s done in this league. But I’m here to focus on the future, not dwell on the past. This is about building my vision for this team moving forward.”*

 

The statement did little to calm critics, many of whom argue that basic sportsmanship and humility aren’t “dwelling on the past”—they’re just human decency.

 

### **Is This the Start of Locker Room Friction?**

 

While DeVries brings a sharp basketball mind and successful mid-major pedigree, insiders suggest that his cold start could affect chemistry within the locker room. Several players were reportedly “tight” with Daigneault and remain unsure of DeVries’ tone and leadership style.

 

NBA culture, built on relationships and respect, doesn’t often forget slights—especially one this public.

 

—

 

### **Final Thought: A Misstep That Could Linger**

 

In a league that preaches respect and mentorship, Darian DeVries’ silence toward Mark Daigneault may seem small—but it speaks volumes. Whether it was ego, strategy, or simple oversight, the message it sent was clear: *this coach isn’t here to say thank you.*

 

And for a job he didn’t even win at first, that might be a mistake he lives to regret.

 

Stay tuned.