Micah Potter’s journey back to the NBA is nothing short of inspiring—a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity. But here's where it gets controversial: Is the league truly giving undrafted talents like Potter a fair shot, or are they perpetually stuck in a cycle of short-term deals and G-League stints? Let’s dive in.
The former Wisconsin Badger, who last graced the NBA court with the Utah Jazz in April, has officially signed with the Indiana Pacers, marking his return to the big stage. Potter’s college career was nothing short of impressive. Over two seasons (2019-2021), he emerged as a key player for Wisconsin, shooting a stellar .513 from the field and an even more impressive .413 from beyond the arc. His averages of 11.6 points and 6.1 rebounds per game showcased his versatility as a center. In 2021, his efforts earned him a spot on the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award Watch List, an honor reserved for college basketball’s top centers. And this is the part most people miss: Despite his collegiate success, Potter went undrafted in 2021, a stark reminder of how unpredictable the NBA draft can be.
His professional journey began with the Miami Heat, though he was eventually cut, leading him to the G-League for his rookie year. The following season, he landed a two-way deal with the Utah Jazz, making his NBA debut in January 2022. However, breaking into the league proved challenging. Last season, Potter appeared in 38 games for the Jazz, starting 10, and averaged 4.3 points and 4.3 rebounds while shooting .422 from the field. Despite his efforts, Utah opted not to retain him, and he found himself signing a training camp deal with the San Antonio Spurs in August. Unfortunately, he was waived before the season began, sending him back to the G-League.
Now, Potter joins a Pacers team in dire need of a spark. With star guard Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the entire 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL, the Pacers are struggling, sitting second-to-last in the Eastern Conference with a 6-24 record. Here’s the bold question: Can Potter’s skill set and determination help turn the tide for Indiana, or will he remain on the fringes of the NBA? Only time will tell.
What’s your take? Do players like Potter deserve more opportunities in the NBA, or is the league’s current system fair? Let us know in the comments below!
