The head coach during the 1997–98 Indiana Pacers season retired as a player from what NBA team?
1997–98 Indiana Pacers season The 1997–98 NBA season was the Pacers' 22nd season in the National Basketball Association, and 31st season as a franchise. It was also Larry Bird's first year as head coach. During the offseason, the Pacers acquired All-Star forward Chris Mullin from the Golden State Warriors. The team struggled early in the season losing five of their first seven games, but then won 15 of their next 18 games. The Pacers won nine of their final eleven games, and returned to the playoffs after a one-year absence finishing second in the Central Division with a 58–24 record. It was also the first time since joining the NBA that the Pacers finished with a winning road record. Reggie Miller, Rik Smits and coach Bird represented the Eastern Conference during the 1998 NBA All-Star Game. It was Smits' only All-Star appearance. Bird was also named Coach of The Year.
1997–98 Miami Heat season The 1997–98 NBA season was the tenth season for the Miami Heat in the National Basketball Association. In the offseason, the Heat signed free agent Eric Murdock and acquired Duane Causwell from the Sacramento Kings. Despite Alonzo Mourning missing the first 22 games of the season due to an offseason knee injury, the Heat continued to play strong basketball as backup center Isaac Austin played string coming off the bench. Jamal Mashburn was also injured only playing just 48 games due to a thumb injury. Mourning would eventually return as Austin was traded at midseason to the Los Angeles Clippers for Brent Barry, as the Heat posted a 13–2 record in February. The Heat finished first place in the Atlantic Division with a 55–27 record. Tim Hardaway was the only member of the team to be selected for the 1998 NBA All-Star Game.