The Indiana Pacers are having fun in training camp

So far, the Indiana Pacers appear to be having fun this season.

With Nate Bjorkgren taking over as head coach, the Indiana Pacers are having a fun and entertaining training camp. The team has taken quite a liking to the new head coach while mixing things up in practice.

Doug McDermott, who was rumored in various trade talks this offseason, did not seem phased when he arrived for camp. After the first week of practice, McDermott made it clear that he enjoyed Bjorkgren’s style.

"“This is the most fun I’ve had in a training camp in my entire career”, said McDermott after the first few practices."

McDermott has been around several NBA locker rooms and head coaches so this is very promising. Of course, this could still be entirely a publicity thing in order to back up his new coach but it is still nice to see the Pacers defend their new head coach.

The team has also incorporated some fun challenges and roster shakeups during practice to see how players respond to different situations and groupings on the floor. One thing that has caught my eye is the “camp champ” award that is given out after practice.

https://twitter.com/Pacers/status/1335705673917665284?s=20

Edmond Sumner and T.J. McConnell have each taken home the belt as camp champions for their effort and attention to detail in practice. Coaches and players are taking notice of the players who show heart and hustle throughout practice, and competition is good for everyone involved.

The Pacers are encouraging each other to keep improving while also rewarding those who do just that. Spirits are high and the Pacers seem to be enjoying themselves as they prepare for their first preseason game this week. Hopefully, the new tactics in camp will keep players focused on the team and get them ready for real competition once the season opens up.