Travis Best is a former NBA point guard who carved a steady, playmaking role for the Indiana Pacers during the late 1990s and early 2000s. After his NBA tenure, Best continued his professional basketball career overseas, including a stint with Virtus Bologna in 2007.
Early years and NBA entry
Travis Best developed into a poised floor general who entered the NBA with the Indiana Pacers, contributing as a reliable playmaker in the late 1990s and establishing himself as a trusted guard in rotation roles.
Pacers era: The backbone of a playmaking rotation
During his Pacers years, Travis Best provided steady minutes as a guard who could push the tempo, run the pick-and-roll, and set up teammates. He helped the team maintain competitive status in the Eastern Conference and contributed to playoff runs alongside its core.
Playing style and strengths
Best was known for his court vision, decision-making, and ability to manage pace. His ball-handling and passing accuracy made him a reliable facilitator who could defend select guards and contribute in crunch time.
Notable seasons and stats
While not a household name, Travis Best’s contributions came through steady backup minutes, production in assists, and efficient ball-handling under pressure. His impact is often measured in on-court distribution and floor management rather than headline-scoring numbers.
Overseas career and later years
After the NBA, Travis Best continued his professional journey overseas, including a 2007 stint with Virtus Bologna in Italy, illustrating the common path for players extending their careers beyond the NBA.
Legacy and impact on the position
Travis Best’s career underscores the value of a pass-first point guard who can shape offensive flow, mentor younger players, and provide a stable guard rotation in playoff environments.
Off-court impact and leadership
Beyond the court, Travis Best has contributed to basketball communities through clinics and youth development, reflecting how professional athletes influence the game beyond their playing days.
2025 relevance and discussions
With the NBA evolving toward versatile guard play, how would Travis Best’s skill set translate to today’s game, and what lessons from his career resonate with current players and fans?
Discussion questions
- How did Travis Best’s playmaking influence Pacers’ offense during the late 1990s?
- In what ways did his overseas stint reflect the post-NBA pathways for players?
- Which aspect of Travis Best’s game is most relevant to today’s point guards?
- Do you think Travis Best deserves more recognition in Pacers history?
- How would his style fare in the modern pace-and-space era?
CTA: Share your take below and join the discussion about Travis Best’s impact on NBA history.