Toumani Camara works out twice for Indiana Pacers: 'It's a dream'
62 players participated in publicly-announced workouts for the Indiana Pacers in the 2023 NBA pre-draft cycle, but only one player had more than one audition with the franchise.
That would be Dayton forward Toumani Camara, who performed in front of Pacers scouts and executives on both June 2 and June 19. The Belgian forward spent four years in the NCAA ranks, and he averaged 13.9 points and 8.6 rebounds per game as a senior.
"It's a dream," Camara said after his second workout in Indiana. "Being able to get invited at least one time, it's already a good feeling."
The six-foot-eight-inch bruiser had two completely different workouts. The first one featured five other players and a lot of three-on-three action, which was common for the blue and gold this year. The second workout had Camara participate alongside Pepperdine's Maxwell Lewis, meaning some of their drills were in a one-on-one setting. That means both players got more reps, but it was more tiring and intense.
Camara's game evolved continuously in the collegiate ranks. His three-point percentage improved every season, and he buried 36.3% of his 80 triples in his final season with the Flyers. His two-point percentage ballooned over 60 in his fourth year as well, and many of his other stats climbed. His year-to-year growth has to be appealing for NBA teams.
"Just that they like my game," Camara said of the feedback he's gotten from the Pacers so far. ESPN's latest mock draft has Indiana selecting the forward with the 55th overall pick.
Camara noted that he also worked out for the Boston Celtics twice in the pre-draft process, so he could be someone that many teams have their eye on. His growth and overall game are intriguing. Players of his prototype are valuable in the NBA.
Statistically, the 23-year old looks like a great prospect. As a senior, his true shooting percentage was over 60%. His free throw rate climbed to an impressive number at over 40%. His steal and block rates were solid, and he decreased his turnover percentage. As Camara's role expanded, so did his skills.
That's why he is worth taking a look at despite his age. Taller forwards who can do a little bit of everything are coveted in the NBA. Even if Camara might never become that kind of player, the chance that he could makes him interesting.
He said that the Pacers emphasized defense in his first workout, which makes sense. The team has made it a point to improve on that end of the floor this offseason, and that extends to the draft. Camara had to show that he can guard at least somewhat.
If he can defend at his size, the Pacers could explore his game. The Brussels native believes that he would fit well with the blue and gold given his play style.
"The pace in which they play I feel like fits my game," Camara said after his first workout with the team. That workout also featured potential second-round pick Julian Strawther.
Camara has been dreaming about reaching the NBA since he was seven years old. He went through 17 different pre-draft workouts, which took him all over the United States. He's ready for draft day.
"I hope a team gives me a shot to play for them and represent their program," he said. He thought the Pacers setup and people were great in his multiple visits with the team.
Perhaps Camara ends up with the blue and gold. Bringing in wings, even ones that could be development projects on two-way deals, is smart business in the modern NBA. Perhaps the pair of workouts signals Pacers interest, though it could just be due diligence. Either way, the Camara is a player worth watching come Thursday.
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