James Wiseman Injury: What happened to Pacers star during season opener vs Detroit Pistons?

Indiana Pacers big man James Wiseman left their 2024-25 NBA season opener against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday after a reported injury. Wiseman had to leave the court mid-game and went straight to the locker room late in the first quarter.

Wiseman attempted a 3-pointer and was in pain after he tried to score. The Pacers big man took a few backward steps and felt pain in his left calf. The 23-year-old center double-checked his surroundings to see if he made contact with anyone.

However, the only player close to him was Isaiah Stewart. But the Pistons big man was in his line of sight as he was the one to contest his shot attempt. Wiseman had trouble walking off the court and had to be escorted by his teammate Obi Toppin.

Over the past few seasons, Wiseman has dealt with various injuries to his lower body. Most of the injuries he's suffered had something to do with his knees and ankles.

During the offseason, the big man signed a two-year deal to join Indiana. He's coming off a 2023-24 campaign where he played the most games in a single season for his career, featuring in 63 games.

He averaged 7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds for the Pistons as a backup big man. With the Pacers, his role hasn't changed and will operate with the second unit.

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A look at the Pacers' first five games

The Pacers want to achieve more than they did last season. The team outperformed most of the Eastern Conference teams in the postseason and reached the conference finals. They look to replicate their success with a strong five-game start to their campaign.

For the rest of October, the team will have five games. Their opening game is against the Pistons, a team they swept in the regular season. Their next game is on Oct. 25, against the New York Knicks. There's a bit of animosity between the two, especially after their Eastern Conference semifinals matchup.

Their third game will be on Oct. 27 against the Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers made significant changes to their roster, which could pose a threat to Indiana's goals this season. On Oct. 28, Tyrese Haliburton and the team will face the Orlando Magic, a team they faced three times last year.

Lastly, they'll conclude the month on Oct. 30 against the defending NBA champions, Boston Celtics. The two teams faced the conference finals last year.