Tamin Lipsey Signs Exhibit 10 Deal with Pacers After Iowa State Career

Tamin Lipsey, a guard from Iowa State University, has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Indiana Pacers, according to a report from Pacers.com. The deal, which is non-guaranteed and allows the team to assign Lipsey to their G League affiliate, marks a significant step for the undrafted free agent.

What Is an Exhibit 10 Deal?

An Exhibit 10 contract, established under the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, enables teams to sign players to short-term deals that include a performance bonus if the athlete is assigned to the G League. The Pacers’ decision to ink Lipsey under this structure reflects their interest in evaluating his skills without committing to a longer-term contract. According to NBA.com, such deals are often used to develop young talent or fill roster gaps.

How Did Lipsey’s Career at Iowa State Prepare Him for This Opportunity?

Lipsey, who averaged 14.8 points and 5.2 assists per game during his senior season at Iowa State, was a key figure in the team’s 2023 NCAA Tournament run. His leadership and playmaking ability drew attention from multiple NBA teams, though he went undrafted in the 2024 draft. “Tamin’s ability to control the tempo of a game and his basketball IQ set him apart,” said Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger, per InsideTheIowa.com. “This opportunity is a testament to his work ethic.”

What’s Next for Lipsey With the Pacers?

The Pacers will likely use the Exhibit 10 deal to assess Lipsey’s fit within their system. If he excels in the G League, he could earn a two-way contract or a standard NBA deal in the future. Historically, players like Tyrese Haliburton and Chris Duarte have used similar pathways to break into the league. “This is a chance to prove himself at the highest level,” Lipsey said in a statement shared by Fox Sports. “I’m ready to work.”

Why This Signing Matters for the Pacers’ Depth

The Pacers, who finished the 2023-24 season with a 40-42 record, are looking to bolster their backcourt. With guards like Chris Duarte and Chris Jones on the roster, adding Lipsey provides competition and flexibility. The team’s general manager, Ryan Pretorius, noted in a press release that “we believe Tamin has the potential to contribute in multiple ways, both on and off the court.”

How Does This Compare to Other Undrafted Success Stories?

Lipsey’s path mirrors that of players like Gary Payton II and D’Angelo Russell, who used G League experience to launch their NBA careers. While Exhibit 10 deals are less common than standard free-agent contracts, they offer a viable route for prospects without first-round pedigree. According to Basketball-Reference, 12 undrafted players signed Exhibit 10 deals in 2024, the highest number since 2018.