INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indiana Pacers organization hopes that a new image, coupled with winning ways on the court, will bring many fans who abandoned the team because of struggles both on and off the court in recent years back to the fold.

It has been 5 years since the infamous Detroit brawl, a fight between some Indiana and Detroit players and fans that spilled into the stands.

The fight marked a turning point for the Pacers organization, one that sent the team in the wrong direction.

Many fans remember the brawl vividly, but most of them appear ready to move on. For the most part, they like the new path the Pacers are paving.

“That time of the brawl and all the other stuff, it did kind of turn me off for a minute," said Pacers fan Anthony Cobb. "As long as they're keeping that positive image, I think the people will be out."

A block party concert Friday night, featuring the group Third Eye Blind, celebrated the opening game of the team's 43rd season.

With the Pacers singing a different tune, team officials hope discouraged fans will again fervently support the team.

For the last couple of years, many fans have stayed away. Empty seats were a sign of their disapproval. Many were angry about off the court incidents involving now former players, and others were just upset with the team's lack of winning.

Greg Schenkel, Pacers' vice-president of corporate affairs, said a recent poll conducted by an independent firm indicates a likely rebound.

“One of the questions they posed was 'Do you believe the Pacers have kept their promise when they said they were going to change things?' and over 90 percent of the people said 'Yes,'" Schenkel said.

Not everyone is back on the bandwagon. Mack Barrett said he used to be a big fan until the teams performance on and off the court went downhill.

“When they're doing good, I buy the tickets. When they're not doing good, I watch them at home,” he said.

The Pacers formula to win back fan support consists of new players, visual community service and game promotions. Schenkel said there are signs its starting to work, citing an increase in individual season ticket sales.