In with the new and out with the old. That's what the Indiana Pacers said as an organization back in November 1999. The team went from their home being inside the confines of Market Square Arena to relocating their establishment into then-Conseco Fieldhouse.
Memories are made and history happens inside each arena. The experience of a fan becomes even more pleasurable depending on the atmosphere.
The Indiana Pacers are a small market team. They capture the hearts of their Indianapolis fans and others in surrounding areas.
Long gone are the days of 'Miller Time' and other glory eras. Now, the Pacers are working on a return to the Eastern Conference Finals and more.
But which home is better? Market Square or Gainbridge? Let's explore!
Then: Market Square Arena (1974-1999)
The construction was completed in 1974 and would be renovated about two decades later in 1995. For basketball games, the capacity was always between 16,500 to 17,000 patrons.
The Pacers did not join the National Basketball Association until 1976. They played in the American Basketball Association their first two years at Market Square.
Big moments for the Pacers organization happened in this particular building. Basketball fans saw the 1985 NBA All-Star Game. They saw the debut of Reggie Miller and the return of Michael Jordan (from his first retirement).
The Pan American Games were hosted in Indianapolis back in 1987. Market Square played host for the basketball games during this event.
The host country, the United States, saw the gold medal slip away when Brazil stunned them late in the fourth quarter. The USA settled on the silver as they were the runner-up.
Famously, the late great Elvis Presley performed his last concert here. He would pass away about two months later. Market Square also was the scene for Wayne Gretzky's professional career as a hockey player.
Miller, Mark Jackson, Rik Smits, and company came close to a championship a few times. The Jordan-led Chicago Bulls stopped them in the 1997-1998 season during the Eastern Conference Finals.
Needless to say, many moments have been captured here. Fans grew to love the Pacers as they saw quite a few solid teams attempt to win an NBA Championship.
But does it surpass the intrigue or allure of Gainbridge?