“I Will Grow Older With You!” Pacers’ Rick Carlisle and Dr. Donna Nobile Celebrate 24 Years of Love as They Embark on New Chapter Together

It was a love story 13 years in the making: Rick Carlisle, NBA champion and head coach of the Indiana Pacers, and Dr. Donna Nobile, a respected pediatric infectious disease specialist, met in 1987 during Carlisle’s playing days and finally exchanged vows on September 16, 2000 (heavy.com). Now, as they celebrate their 24th wedding anniversary, the couple is looking ahead to new adventures—both at home and in their shared passions.

Born in Ogdensburg, New York in 1959, Carlisle built a storied basketball career—playing for the Celtics, Knicks, and Nets—and later winning an NBA championship as coach of the Mavericks in 2011 before guiding the Pacers to this season’s Finals (en.wikipedia.org). Through it all, Nobile has been his unwavering partner; after completing medical school at Georgetown and a residency in Philadelphia, she emerged as a leading voice at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis (profootballnetwork.com).

Their bond reflects far more than shared milestones—it’s rooted in mutual admiration and support. Carlisle has repeatedly credited her counsel, especially during the COVID‑19 pandemic, when her medical insight helped guide him and the team through health protocols (fieldhousefiles.com). The couple also share a daughter, Abby (born May 7, 2004), now in college and already making TikTok waves alongside her dad (heavy.com).

This anniversary not only marks two decades of marriage—it celebrates a deep partnership between two accomplished professionals who balance the demands of NBA life and medicine with grace. As they toast to 24 years, the Carlisles are already planning their next chapter: more family time, travel adventures, and continued community impact—both on the court and at the children’s hospital.

From Grateful Dead concerts arranged by Bill Walton to international Finals appearances, their love story proves that longevity is truly built on teamwork.

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