The 2002–03 NBA season was the Pacers' 27th season in the National Basketball Association, and 36th season as a franchise. During the off-season, the Pacers signed free agent Erick Strickland. Despite a rash of early-season injuries, the Pacers got off to a fast start winning 14 of their first 16 games, posting a nine-game winning streak in November, and holding a 34–15 record at the All-Star break. However, the team struggled losing 12 of 13 games between February 16 and March 12. In March, the team signed free agent All-Star point guard Tim Hardaway. The Pacers finished second in the Central Division with a 48–34 record.