Indiana Pacers guard Ethan Thompson is reportedly preparing to leave the NBA and sign with Partizan in Serbia.
Several European reports indicate that Thompson is expected to join the EuroLeague club once he receives a release from his two-way contract with Indiana.
The 6-foot-4 guard spent most of last season on a two-way deal with the Pacers. He appeared in 32 NBA games, averaging 7.0 points and 2.2 rebounds.
Thompson was particularly productive in the G League, averaging 26.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.4 steals across 16 games.
Thompson’s expected departure could also help Indiana resolve its situation with 2026 draft pick Braden Smith.
The Pacers want to sign Smith, but using their remaining standard roster spot would put them more than $7 million above the luxury tax line and less than $900,000 below the first apron.
If Thompson is released, Indiana could instead give Smith the available two-way contract.
Smith’s representatives have dismissed the possibility of him returning to college basketball. The expectation is that the former Purdue guard will eventually sign with the Pacers.
Ethan Thompson Set To Leave Pacers For Partizan https://t.co/66Ztoz2H2A
— RealGM (@RealGM) August 13, 2026
