Ivica Zubac Suffers Ankle Injury Against Nets
Pacers center Ivica Zubac left the game in the first quarter after landing on an opponent's foot.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Basketball
Pacers center Ivica Zubac sustained a left ankle injury during Sunday's game against the Nets in Brooklyn. He is currently listed as questionable to return to the contest.
Why it matters
Losing Zubac early creates an immediate challenge for the Pacers' rotation, as he has been a core interior presence during the start of the season.
Zubac entered the game shooting 11 of 19 from the field this season. He recorded two points, two assists, and one rebound in the first quarter before leaving the floor.
The players
Ivica Zubac
He is a center for the Pacers who was named to the 2024-25 NBA All-Defensive team.
Larry Nance Jr.
He is a veteran player who replaced Zubac in the lineup following the injury.
Kelly Oubre Jr.
He was the opposing player involved in the sequence that led to Zubac's ankle injury.
The details
Zubac sustained the injury after stepping on Kelly Oubre Jr. while attempting to secure a rebound, leading to his exit from the game. Larry Nance Jr. entered the rotation to replace the 2024-25 NBA All-Defensive team selection.
Timeline
Sunday, October 25, 2026: Ivica Zubac sustained the left ankle injury during the first quarter.
February 2026: The Pacers acquired Ivica Zubac from the Clippers.
Season Trajectory
This injury impacts the Pacers' interior defensive reliability as they navigate the early part of the NBA regular season. The team must adjust its rotation to maintain the performance standards established by Zubac, who was recently honored for his defensive contributions.
The immediate consequence is a shift in the Pacers' frontcourt rotation with Larry Nance Jr. seeing increased minutes. Fantasy managers and team supporters should monitor the injury report for status updates regarding Zubac's availability for upcoming games.
The takeaway
Ankle injuries for starting centers often require careful management to avoid recurring issues, especially given Zubac's previous history with the same injury last season. Trainers will likely prioritize long-term recovery over a quick return to prevent potential season-long setbacks.
Further reading
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