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NBA Coach Rick Carlisle Settles Lawsuit Ahead of Trial

In a surprise move, Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has reached a settlement in a civil lawsuit, avoiding a trial that was set to take place during the NBA playoffs. The lawsuit, filed by former agent Jarinn Akana, alleged that Carlisle breached their contract by refusing to pay commissions owed for negotiating his contract extension with the Dallas Mavericks in 2018.

A Dispute Over Commission Payments

According to court documents, Carlisle wrote a check for $200,000 as an initial payment, but then refused to pay the remaining commissions. The lawsuit claimed that Carlisle threatened to report Akana to the National Basketball Players Association for violating regulations governing player agents, despite having benefited from Akana’s actions.

A Complex Web of Allegations

Carlisle, who has a storied career with 943 wins, denied all allegations, stating that they were “not true in whole or in part.” The lawsuit revealed that Carlisle had initially agreed to pay Akana a 3% commission, but later offered a lower percentage. Akana accepted the reduced payment to avoid further disputes.

A New Chapter for Carlisle

The settlement brings an end to a tumultuous period for Carlisle, who resigned from the Mavericks in 2021 and joined the Pacers that offseason. Under his leadership, the Pacers have shown significant improvement, advancing to the Eastern Conference finals last season.

A Career Marked by Success

With a 943-828 career record, Carlisle ranks 12th in NBA history in wins. His teams have consistently performed well, including the Mavericks’ 2011 championship run. As the Pacers look to build on their recent success, Carlisle can now focus on the court, rather than the courtroom.

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