Texas Ex Myles Turner expected to sign nearly $80-million extension to remain with the Indiana Pacers

The Eyes of Texas are upon you.

Myles Turner is going to get paid.

Those aren’t the correct lyrics, but it’s probably what the former Texas Longhorns center is singing this evening.

On Monday afternoon, multiple outlets reported the former lottery pick is expected to sign an extension with the Indiana Pacers before the start of the 2018 season. It is reported that Turner, who is in the final year of his rookie contract and making roughly $4 million, is working on a four-year extension worth as much as $80 million.

During the recent offseason, Turner embarked on a fitness journey aimed at remodeling his 6’11 frame. The result, after shadow boxing, yoga, and several other crossfit-like routines, left Turner in arguably the best shape he has ever been in during his NBA career.

Unfortunately, the dedication to fitness excluded a staple of Texas food: Whataburger. Turner was quoted in August with attributing a portion of his success to his revamped menu, which cut ties with the popular burger chain, among other unhealthy favorites.

The Pacers decision to lock Turner into an extension comes as no surprise to anyone who has followed Turner’s career. The pride product of Euless Trinity hoops has enjoyed an upward trajectory since his rookie season in 2015-16. Turner averaged 10 points and five rebounds per game in 60 games during his debut season.

In 2016, Turner’s best season statistically, Turner played in 81 games and averaged 14.5 points and seven rebounds per game. Last season, Turner missed 17 games to injury (concussion, elbow), and averaged almost 13 points and nearly seven rebounds per game.

Turner and the Pacers kick off their season on Wednesday at home against Memphis.