Sat Jun 14 21:10:00 UTC 2025: **Pacers Assistant Coach Jenny Boucek’s Play Designs Spark NBA Finals Run**
INDIANAPOLIS – Before Tyrese Haliburton’s recent game-winning shots, a lesser-known play designed by Indiana Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek may have been even more crucial to the team’s success.
Back on March 11, with the Pacers fighting for playoff seeding, Boucek’s out-of-bounds play helped secure a pivotal win against the Milwaukee Bucks. With just seconds remaining, head coach Rick Carlisle called on Boucek to execute a play she’d developed, drawing inspiration from her days playing semipro flag football and collaborating with WNBA legend Sue Bird. The play, a four-receiver set with players running various patterns towards the basket, resulted in Haliburton hitting a game-tying three-pointer while drawing a foul, ultimately winning the game.
Carlisle praised Boucek’s knowledge, relationship-building skills, humility and ability to build relationships. He went on to suggest that Boucek is on a path to become the first female head coach in the NBA. Her rising profile was on full display in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where she took charge of setting the defense for the final play.
Former Bulls head coach Jim Boylen praised Boucek’s strong teaching and communications skills, describing her ability to both learn and teach.
Beyond her coaching prowess, Boucek’s story is also one of personal triumph. As a single mother to her 6-year-old daughter Rylie, she juggles the demanding role of an NBA assistant coach with the responsibilities of parenthood. The Pacers organization has provided support, allowing Rylie and a caregiver to travel with her on extended road trips.
The Pacers have seen a significant improvement on defense under Boucek, moving from 24th to 14th in the league this season. Players like Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard credit her with their quick integration into the team’s system and her extensive knowledge of the game.
Boucek’s journey began after a career-ending injury cut short her WNBA playing career. She then found her calling on the sidelines, coaching in both the WNBA and NBA. Inspired by her family’s history in medicine, with members pioneering treatments like deep brain stimulation and pediatric heart transplants, Boucek approaches the game with a scientific and innovative mindset.
Supported by friends and coaches, Boucek is breaking barriers and proving that women can excel in both motherhood and high-level coaching. As guard T.J. McConnell said, “She’s a single mom doing this. It’s not easy, and she’s breaking barriers in this sport. She’s such a good coach. We love having her. We’re lucky to have her.”
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