Fuson replaces Morris as Indiana Pacers president

The Indiana Pacers on Tuesday announced a front-office shuffle that will see longtime executive Rick Fuson replace Jim Morris as president of Pacers Sports & Entertainment.

Morris, who has been PS&E president since 2008, will remain with the organization as vice chairman.

The moves are effective immediately.

Fuson, 61, will retain the position of chief operating officer, a role he's had since 2008. As president and COO, he is responsible for the operation of all aspects of the business of PS&E and Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Fuson joined the Pacers’ organization in 1984 as director of special events for Market Square Arena. He was promoted to executive senior vice president of PS&E in 2001.

Morris, 71, a former banker, utility executive and civic leader, joined PS&E in 2007 as a special consultant to then-President and CEO Donnie Walsh. He replaced Walsh the following year after Walsh joined the New York Knicks as president of basketball operations.

 “This is not about change but continuity,” Pacers Chairman and CEO Herb Simon said Tuesday in a prepared statement. “Jim Morris will maintain his important leadership role in fostering and sustaining relationships in the community and throughout the state of Indiana. Rick Fuson over many years has shown himself to be a brilliant manager and trusted steward of PS&E and all its assets and will continue to do so.”