Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith has quickly become one of the NBA's most exciting players to watch—both for his growing impact on the court and his influence off of it. With a breakout playoff performance in 2025 and a budding reputation as a style icon, Nesmith is capturing attention in ways few expected.

Aaron Nesmith: Sharpshooter, Defender, and Underrated Weapon

This season, Aaron Nesmith emerged as a key contributor for the Pacers. Averaging 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 50.7% from the field, Nesmith's growth has been pivotal in Indiana's playoff push. His ability to space the floor and knock down threes makes him a weapon opponents can't ignore. During the Pacers' first-round playoff series, Nesmith raised his level even higher, delivering clutch performances—including a 19-point, 12-rebound showing to help close out the Milwaukee Bucks.

Nesmith's rise hasn't gone unnoticed by analysts or fans. According to 8 Points, 9 Seconds, he is considered the team's "most underrated weapon." His shooting efficiency, defensive presence, and ability to rebound as a wing give the Pacers a unique edge in crucial moments. As the team advances to face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the next round, Nesmith's versatile skill set will be vital.

Making a Statement: Fashion and NBA Tunnel Culture

Aaron Nesmith is making headlines for more than just his play. The NBA's "tunnel fit" culture—a pregame tradition where players showcase personal style as they arrive at arenas—continues to evolve. In 2025, Nesmith became the face of an innovative collaboration with Indiana University student Jenna Reed, who won a fashion design competition to create a custom outfit for Nesmith's pregame tunnel walk.

Jenna's design blended personal stories from Nesmith's childhood with the iconic colors of the Pacers' City Edition uniforms. The result was a striking ensemble, complete with a hand-knitted sweater and custom-tailored pants, suited to Nesmith's 6-foot-5 frame and 6-foot-10 wingspan. The collaboration garnered local media attention for its creativity and its success at bringing together sports and design.

Behind the Scenes: The IU Competition and Creative Process

The contest that brought Nesmith and Reed together was part of IU's annual "Fashion Within Sports" event. Students were challenged to research, design, and pitch outfits to NBA players. Reed's winning proposal drew inspiration from Nesmith’s roots, including his family's koi pond from his childhood in South Carolina. The thoughtful design, as reported by IU News, resonated with Nesmith, who wore the completed look to the Pacers' final home game of the season.

This memorable fashion moment highlights how the tunnel has become an extension of a player's identity. For Nesmith, it was a chance to show support for young talent and celebrate his own story.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Aaron Nesmith

Aaron Nesmith continues to prove his value for the Indiana Pacers, both as a rising star on the court and as a figure in NBA culture. His playoff performances have solidified his role as an essential piece in Indiana's rotation. Off the court, his willingness to partner with and promote local creatives demonstrates a commitment to community and self-expression. As the Pacers advance in the playoffs, keep an eye on Nesmith—not just for his game-changing plays, but also for his game-changing style.

For more about Nesmith’s tunnel fit journey and his impact on both basketball and fashion, check out IU News’s insight into the IU competition and local coverage on WTHR.