Keisei Tominaga has snagged a shot at the NBA, locking down an Exhibit 10 contract with the Pacers for their upcoming training camp, according to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony.
But can the sharpshooting Nebraska guard dazzle Indiana enough to earn a spot on the opening day roster?
There’s no questioning Tominaga’s prowess from beyond the arc, especially after he dominated the NCAA’s 3-point contest and maintained a solid 37.4 percent shooting rate from deep during his tenure with the Cornhuskers. The Pacers were already treated to a showcase of his sharpshooting skills last summer during a pre-draft workout.
Yet, to win over head coach Rick Carlisle, Tominaga will need to do more than just light it up from downtown.
How Keisei Tominaga can make the Pacers roster
Keisei Tominaga is gearing up for a shot at the NBA, securing an Exhibit 10 contract with the Pacers for their upcoming training camp, according to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony.
However, Tominaga faces some key challenges to cement his place on the team. Standing at 6-2 and 179 pounds, he acknowledges the need to bulk up and improve his defensive game, aspects highlighted during his workouts with the Pacers last season.
“I need to get better at defense and physical aspects,” Tominaga remarked on his areas for growth.
His college coach, Fred Hoiberg, noted Tominaga’s progress in adapting to the physical demands of the game, especially against larger opponents. Hoiberg praised Tominaga’s resilience and ability to navigate tough defenses, which will be crucial in the NBA.
In the NBA, smaller guards like Fred VanVleet and Jalen Brunson have thrived through toughness and defensive tenacity, qualities Tominaga has shown glimpses of at Nebraska but needs to further refine.
Tominaga’s evolution isn’t solely defensive; he’s expanded his game offensively, doubling his assists per game from junior to senior year and improving his skills as a driver.
“My biggest improvement has been attacking the basket and playing more on-ball,” Tominaga highlighted as areas of growth.
With the Pacers, Tominaga faces stiff competition for limited roster spots. The team has already secured contracts for 12 players, with potentially two more slots available. The recent acquisition of Johnny Furphy and the drafting of Enrique Freeman and Tristen Newton add further competition for Tominaga’s position.
While making the regular 15-man roster might be challenging, Tominaga could vie for a two-way contract, allowing him to split time between the NBA and the G League. This path would provide valuable playing opportunities and keep him in contention for a full-time NBA spot in the future.
If not selected for a two-way deal, Tominaga could still opt to join the Pacers’ G League affiliate for the season, maintaining visibility for potential future NBA opportunities.
Overall, Tominaga faces a pivotal training camp with the Pacers, where he’ll need to showcase not only his sharpshooting ability but also his defensive improvements and all-around game to secure his place in professional basketball.
