Days after the LA Clippers parted with James Harden, big man Ivica Zubac finds himself on the move as well. However, in a shocking turn of events, it was not the only major life news he received on Thursday.
In the final hour before the trade deadline, the Clippers agreed on a deal to part with Zubac. Per Shams Charania, he has been traded to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and one second-round pick.
Ivica Zubac’s Wife Announces Birth of Daughter Following Pacers Trade
Since joining the Clippers back in 2019, Zubac has blossomed into one of the league’s top two-way big men. Less than a year removed from his best season in the pros, he is now gearing up for a new change of scenery.
Having spent seven-and-a-half seasons with the Clippers, being shipped to the Pacers is a major life change for the Zubac family. That said, it falls short of the announcement they made hours after the trade.
In an Instagram post on Thursday evening, Zubac’s wife, Kristina, revealed that they had welcomed a daughter. This is the couple’s first child since tying the knot back in 2021.
Ivica Zubac and his wife Kristina have announced the birth of their daughter. pic.twitter.com/SoD8TCY3sD
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) February 5, 2026
This week is a whirlwind of emotions for the veteran center. He’ll be embracing change in both his professional and personal life.
While adjusting to fatherhood, Zubac will also be attempting to make a strong first impression with his new team. Luckily for him, this trade was made with the long-term in mind as opposed to this season.
As everyone knows, Tyrese Haliburton is missing the entirety of the 2026 campaign due to an Achilles injury he suffered last postseason. Upon returning, the star point guard will have a new running mate in the frontcourt.
Though he’s not a superstar, Zubac is still a big addition for the Pacers as they aim to get back into the Eastern Conference title hunt next season. For starters, he’ll serve as a pillar on the defensive end next to Pascal Siakam. On the other end of the floor, Zubac can operate in the two-man game with Haliburton. Given the success he has had as a pick-and-roll partner for James Harden, he should thrive playing with one of the league’s top playmakers.
In light of the team’s current situation and the birth of his child, it’s likely Zubac’s Indiana debut won’t be rushed following his trade-deadline acquisition.
