Jenny Boucek: From the Court to the Bench, An Inspiring NBA Story

Jenny Boucek: The Strategist Behind the Pacers’ Success

In the fast-paced world of the NBA, where every play can define a team’s destiny, Indiana Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek has become a key figure. Her tactical ingenuity and ability to connect with the players have been fundamental in the Pacers’ outstanding season, culminating in their participation in the NBA Finals. Before Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shots against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the New York Knicks, there was a crucial play that could have been even more decisive for the Pacers’ progress. On March 11, at a critical moment in the regular season, Boucek designed a play that proved to be the key to securing home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. With 3.9 seconds on the clock and the Pacers down by three points, head coach Rick Carlisle turned to Boucek to run a special play. This play, inspired by his experience in flag football and perfected during his time as coach of the Seattle Storm of the WNBA, proved to be a resounding success. The concept is simple: one player takes the ball out from the middle of the court, while four others line up behind the half-court line. Each player runs a route, making movements towards the basket. The player taking the ball out quickly finds the open player, taking advantage of the fact that the defense is at a disadvantage.

This is how the Pacers executed the Boucek play against the Bucks. Andrew Nembhard acted as the inbounder, and Haliburton, positioned on the opposite side, slipped behind his teammates to receive the pass and score an off-balance three-pointer, in addition to drawing a foul.

Haliburton's four-point play against the Bucks on March 11 was critical in the Pacers' push toward the top of the East. But what few know is the play that led to it was drawn up by Boucek, who first had the idea nearly 25 years ago. — El juego de cuatro puntos de Haliburton contra los Bucks el 11 de marzo fue crucial para el avance de los Pacers. Pero lo que pocos saben es que la jugada fue diseñada por Boucek, quien tuvo la idea hace casi 25 años.

This four-point play marked the beginning of a series of magical moments for Haliburton this postseason. But it was also an achievement for Boucek.

“That was a crucial moment in our season,” Carlisle stated.
Rick Carlisle

Confidence in Boucek was again evident in the Pacers’ victory over the Thunder in the first game of the NBA Finals. After Haliburton scored the winning shot with 0.3 seconds remaining, ABC cameras focused on Boucek, instead of Carlisle, directing the defense for the last play. Boucek has managed to balance her role as a coach and mother, with the support of the team that allows her to travel with her daughter Rylie. Coach Carlisle has recognized her ability to handle both roles, even hiring Jim Boylen as a defensive consultant to help her. The Pacers have notably improved on defense, moving from 24th place in 2023-24 to 14th this season. They have maintained a top-10 defense since January 1st until the end of the regular season, and they have improved even more in the playoffs. Three-time All-Star forward Pascal Siakam credits Boucek with a significant role in his rapid adaptation to the Pacers’ system. Point guard Andrew Nembhard also highlights his knowledge of the game. Boucek’s story is a testament to perseverance and dedication. After a playing career cut short by injuries, she found her calling in coaching. Her path has led her to break barriers and become an inspiring figure in the world of basketball. Boucek, who has stood out as one of the best coaches in the NBA, continues to demonstrate that she is able to combine her passion for basketball with her role as a mother, inspiring others with her dedication and professionalism.