Keba Keita made a quick and efficient debut for the Indiana Pacers, scoring four points in just two minutes during the team's 123-112 preseason win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 7. The undrafted big man from BYU wasted no time, scoring on a contested layup and a putback tip-in during his brief but impactful appearance.
Keita's first NBA basket came on a strong post move where he sealed his defender and finished at the rim. His second score was a hustle play, tipping in a rebound over a pair of Timberwolves. You can see both plays in the game highlights between the 16:04 and 16:23 marks. The game was held at Hilton Coliseum, a venue Keita knew well from his college days. His last game there was a double-overtime thriller where BYU beat Iowa State and he posted seven points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks.
His path to this moment was unconventional. After going undrafted in June, Keita played for the Pacers' Summer League team. He averaged 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in just 13.5 minutes per game there. His best outing featured 14 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks in 16 minutes. That performance helped earn him a closer look from the organization.
The Pacers' preseason schedule offers limited chances for roster hopefuls to impress. With just three games left, every minute counts for players on the fringe. Keita is on an Exhibit 10 contract, which is not a guaranteed NBA roster spot. He's competing to potentially earn a two-way deal. His physical tools and energy, especially as a rim runner and rebounder, are his calling cards.
At 6'8", he's considered undersized for a traditional NBA center. But his Summer League shot-blocking and his immediate activity in his debut suggest he can find a niche. The Pacers have a history of developing undrafted talent, and Keita is trying to follow that path. Coach Kevin Young has already helped several players reach the league, and Keita aims to be the next.
Time is short. The Pacers' next preseason fixture is at home against the Atlanta Hawks on October 10. It's another critical opportunity for Keita to log minutes and make plays. After that, only two more preseason contests remain before final roster decisions loom.
Keita faced a unique crossroad this summer. He was part of a group of seniors seeking an extra year of college eligibility under new NCAA rules. After weeks of consideration, he chose to stay pro, signing his Exhibit 10 deal with Indiana on September 19. Now his focus is entirely on proving he belongs.
The preseason result against Minnesota was a positive start for the team. For Keita, the work is just beginning. He'll need to consistently show the same hustle and efficiency in limited bursts to convince the front office to keep him around. His debut was a solid first step in that long journey.
