In the United States, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle expressed deep dissatisfaction with a recent fine imposed by the NBA, which labeled the team's actions as tanking. On February 12, 2026, the league penalized the Pacers $100,000 for not adhering to the player participation policy during a game against the Utah Jazz on February 3. This game was particularly scrutinized as the NBA deemed that players Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Andrew Nembhard should have been healthy enough to participate, but they did not, leading to the fine once the investigation concluded. Carlisle disclosed that prior to the game, the NBA had suggested the team consider medicating Nesmith, who was sidelined due to a left-hand strain. He was appalled by the league's methods, especially when they declined to consult the Pacers' medical team, relying instead on their doctors who had not personally examined Nesmith. The coach emphasized the importance of proper evaluations and raised concerns regarding the league's judgment on players' health. The fine against the Pacers was part of a larger scrutiny over tanking practices within the league and was accompanied by a simultaneous $500,000 fine against the Utah Jazz. The NBA’s endorsement of changes to their player participation policy for the 2023-24 season, focusing mainly on star players, has raised questions about implications for teams employing younger, less established players like Nesmith. Additionally, with the current landscape of the league incentivizing multiple teams to lose games in hopes of securing a better draft position, Carlisle is vocal about maintaining the integrity of the game. With the 2026 NBA Draft on the horizon, where numerous teams are jockeying for advantageous picks, the ongoing discussions concerning tanking become increasingly relevant. The situation puts pressure not only on team management but also on players, as they navigate a competitive environment where their participation directly relates to the team's future prospects. Carlisle's statements underscore a growing concern that these practices could undermine the spirit of competition, as teams may prioritize future prospects over immediate performance.