Myles Turner Believes Era of NBA Super Teams is Less Effective

Myles Turner has shared his perspective on the evolving dynamics of NBA team-building, suggesting a shift away from the era of dominant "super teams." He stated, "I think the years of the super teams and stacking, it's just not as effective as it once was." This sentiment aligns with observations about the current league landscape, where team cohesion and chemistry are increasingly seen as critical components for success.
This idea of team chemistry is echoed by Williams, who drew parallels between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. He noted that both are small-market teams that appear to have strong internal bonds. "He made a really good point. I think teams that get along well and actually have a real chemistry it’s starting to show a little more," Williams commented, adding, "You’re starting to get to the NBA just naturally getting younger, and I think we’re kind of in that transition now." Williams further observed the positive atmosphere surrounding the Pacers, as mentioned in a Clutch Points report from June 2, 2025: "Outside looking in, they look like they have a lot of fun playing with each other. Their crowd is really into it. Their city loves them. So, that’s kind of around the same thing as us."
A notable example of professionalism and team spirit within the Pacers is the story of Thomas Bryant, as detailed in the New York Times on June 1, 2025. During the Eastern Conference finals, the 27-year-old center initially served as a backup. However, after poor showings in Games 1 and 2, he was benched for Games 3 and 4 in favor of Tony Bradley, who had initially joined the Pacers on a 10-day contract in March. Bryant's opportunity to return to the rotation came when Bradley strained his hip in Game 5. He seized this chance, providing a significant boost to the Pacers in Game 6.
Bryant's resilience and attitude did not go unnoticed by his team. Teammate Pascal Siakam described his resurgent performance as a reward from "the basketball Gods," while coach Rick Carlisle credited Bryant’s "indomitable spirit." Myles Turner himself praised Bryant's professionalism, recalling their history: "Man, I’ve been playing against Thomas since high school. He’s always had that enthusiasm, that energy and that skill. … And he didn’t complain. He didn’t pout. If you watch any film, bro, he’s the first one up on the bench (cheering), first one gassing us up, talking to us and getting us right. Me going down in foul trouble, he got his opportunity (Saturday) and he didn’t look back."
The Pacers' journey also includes specific game moments and player performances that highlight their competitive nature. For instance, a tweet from Law Murray pointed out a critical juncture where "Pacers dared to sit Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner at the same time, and New York unleashed an 8-0 run in less than 100 seconds." Additionally, player statistics, such as those shared by StatMuse regarding leading Pacer scorers against the Thunder this season (Andrew Nembhard: 19.5 PPG, Bennedict Mathurin: 18.0 PPG, Pascal Siakam: 16.5 PPG, Myles Turner: 11.5 PPG, Jarace Walker: 11.0 PPG, Tyrese Haliburton: 11.0 PPG), offer insights into individual contributions within the team dynamic.