ESPN: Congratulations — Indiana Pacers Cheerleaders Crowned World’s Best and Most Unified Athletic Program in Historic Recognition by ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records
In an unprecedented and historic celebration, the Indiana Pacers Cheerleaders have officially been crowned the World’s Best and Most Unified Athletic Program, earning global recognition from ESPN, Netflix, and the Guinness World Records. The momentous accolade comes after years of tireless dedication, synchronized excellence, and a legacy of breaking barriers in the world of professional sports entertainment.
The award was presented in a grand ceremony aired live on ESPN and featured in an upcoming Netflix documentary titled “Beyond the Court: The Rise of the Pacemates,” highlighting the inspiring journey of the Indiana Pacers’ cheerleading squad — affectionately known as the Pacemates — from humble beginnings to global recognition.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Pacemates have been a vital part of the Indiana Pacers franchise since 1968, becoming one of the longest-standing and most respected cheerleading programs in professional basketball. Over the decades, they’ve evolved from traditional sideline dancers to highly skilled, athletic ambassadors of the franchise, known for their energetic routines, community outreach, and empowerment initiatives.
This historic recognition is more than just about high kicks and halftime performances — it’s a celebration of diversity, unity, and impact. The Pacemates are being honored not only for their world-class performance quality but also for building the most inclusive and unified program among professional cheer squads.
The Netflix Documentary: A Closer Look
Netflix’s involvement in this recognition stems from their upcoming release, “Beyond the Court”, a six-part docuseries exploring the underrepresented world of NBA cheerleading. Episode four focuses exclusively on the Pacemates and their extraordinary commitment to community, athleticism, and cohesion. Producers spent over 18 months documenting their practices, personal lives, philanthropic efforts, and competition circuits, culminating in this crowning achievement.
According to Netflix Executive Producer Jenna Lowe, “The Pacemates represent what modern athletic programs should strive to be: unified, inspiring, and fiercely talented. Their story is powerful and deeply human.”
Guinness World Record: Unity Like No Other
Perhaps the most jaw-dropping part of this historic moment is the Guinness World Record title the Pacers cheerleaders now hold — “Most Synchronized and Diverse Professional Cheerleading Program in the World.” The record-setting performance was achieved earlier this year during an international showcase in Tokyo, Japan, where the Pacemates dazzled a global audience with a flawless routine involving 48 dancers of diverse backgrounds, performing in perfect harmony.
Guinness adjudicators were stunned not just by the precision of the performance, but by the team’s multi-generational makeup and cultural representation. “It wasn’t just dancing — it was a statement of global unity through sport,” said Guinness senior adjudicator Hiroshi Yamamoto.
What Makes the Pacemates Different?
Unlike many professional cheer squads, the Pacemates’ mission goes far beyond the court. Their program includes:
- Leadership development training
- Mental health and wellness coaching
- Youth mentorship and anti-bullying outreach
- Global cultural exchange performances
- Equal representation of women from over 10 different countries
Head Coach and Choreographer Tasha Wilkins, who took over leadership in 2017, has been instrumental in transforming the group into a globally recognized program. “Our goal was never just to be the best dancers,” she said. “We wanted to be the most unified, the most empowering, and the most human-centered team in the world. This recognition proves that the heart behind the uniform matters.”
Reactions Pour In
Social media erupted with support following ESPN’s announcement. NBA stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Reggie Miller offered their congratulations on X (formerly Twitter), with Miller writing, “The Pacemates have always been elite — now the world finally knows it. Proud moment for Indiana!”
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb also praised the team, saying, “The Pacemates represent the spirit of Indiana — driven, inclusive, and proud. This is more than a trophy. It’s a movement.”
A New Era for Cheerleading
The recognition of the Indiana Pacers cheerleaders marks a turning point for professional cheerleading. With ESPN and Netflix amplifying their platform, the Pacemates are poised to lead a new era where cheerleaders are no longer relegated to sidelines, but embraced as athletes, ambassadors, and community leaders.
The upcoming 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, to be hosted in Indianapolis, is expected to feature a special tribute to the Pacemates’ global honor, solidifying their place in both sports and cultural history.
For the Indiana Pacers franchise, it’s not just about basketball anymore — it’s about building a legacy of unity, empowerment, and excellence. And at the heart of that legacy now stands a cheer squad that the world will never underestimate again.
