Andrew Nembhard, initially viewed as a limited scorer and a “reserve guard” prospect, has emerged as a crucial player for the Indiana Pacers. Drafted 31st overall in 2022, concerns about his athleticism and scoring ability led to skepticism regarding his potential. Despite these doubts, Nembhard quickly proved himself, becoming a starting guard and averaging notable performance in both the regular season and playoffs. His recent playoff contributions highlight a significant turnaround in perception, with Nembhard now being a key factor in the Pacers’ success.
By the Numbers
- Nembhard averaged 10 points and 5.3 assists per game in college.
- In his playoff debut, Nembhard scored 23 points on 7-10 shooting (5-6 from three-point range).
- Career playoff averages: 15.3 points, 55.0% FG, 51.1% 3P.
- Career regular-season averages: 9.6 points, 46.4% FG, 33.5% 3P.
State of Play
- Indiana Pacers are seeing improved playoff performance thanks to Nembhard’s contributions.
- Nembhard started over 60 games in his rookie season, the highest for a Pacers rookie since 2001-02.
- His scoring efficiency has increased notably as he adapts to the NBA game.
What’s Next
As Nembhard continues to develop his shooting and playmaking skills, he is likely to take on an even larger role in the Pacers’ future success. His progress could position him as a cornerstone for the team’s backcourt development moving forward.
Bottom Line
Nembhard’s journey from a second-round draft pick to a key player underscores the importance of potential beyond initial scouting reports. His ongoing development is a reminder that talent can emerge in unexpected places, significantly impacting his team’s prospects.
