Jamaal Tinsley's personal transformation has been evident in his improved play this season. Sometimes, it's even more obvious when he isn't playing.

Sitting out the Indiana Pacers' victory over Philadelphia on Wednesday because of a deep thigh bruise, Tinsley played the role of assistant coach. He wore a yellow tie, sat next to the staff, and took teammates aside during timeouts to lend advice and encouragement. He might have the same role tonight in Minnesota.

That picture was a distinct contrast from recent seasons, when he often dressed sloppily when on the bench with an injury or stayed on the bench during timeouts, ignoring the huddle when he was in uniform but out of the game.

Several things are different now, most notably a coaching change, a style of play more suited to his skills, improved health, a more satisfying personal life and simple maturity.
"I'm just happy," he said.

"My six years (with the Pacers) have been frustrating . . . injury stuff, losing my mother, other people that I love. It means a lot when you've got coaches and teammates you've been around for a while who want to see you do good, and I finally get to show people what I'm capable of doing."