Keba Keita Debuted in Pacers Preseason Win

The rookie center scored four points in two minutes during the Indiana Pacers victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Basketball

Keba Keita Debuted in Pacers Preseason Win

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Keba Keita made his NBA preseason debut on October 7, 2026, contributing four points and one rebound in a 123-112 win for the Indiana Pacers. Keita saw two minutes of action during the game held at Hilton Coliseum.

Why it matters

The performance represents a key development for Keita, who is competing for a two-way contract after signing an Exhibit 10 deal with the team in September. Every preseason minute provides an opportunity to earn a roster spot as the Pacers conclude their exhibition schedule.

Keita logged two minutes of play, during which he converted a contested layup and a putback tip-in for his four total points. This debut follows his participation in the NBA G-League Combine held in May 2026.

The players

Keba Keita

He is a center currently competing for a two-way roster spot with the Indiana Pacers.

Indiana Pacers

They are a professional basketball team competing in the Eastern Conference of the NBA.

Minnesota Timberwolves

They are a professional basketball team competing in the Western Conference of the NBA.

The details

Keita made his impact felt quickly in his limited time on the floor by securing his points through interior scoring. The Pacers secured the 123-112 win as the organization continues to evaluate depth players like Keita before the regular season begins.

May 2026: Keita participated in the NBA G-League Combine.
September 19, 2026: Keita signed a one-year Exhibit 10 deal with the Pacers.
October 7, 2026: Keita made his NBA preseason debut in a win over the Timberwolves.

Season Trajectory

Keita’s inclusion in the rotation reflects the standard preseason audition process for fringe roster spots under the NBA's Exhibit 10 contract mechanism. His ability to produce points in limited minutes directly impacts the team's ongoing assessment of their two-way contract depth.

Keita’s efficient four-point showing increases his standing in the competition for a two-way roster spot. The team has three preseason games remaining to finalize their decisions on fringe players before the season starts.

The takeaway

Players on Exhibit 10 deals must maximize their limited court time to demonstrate value to coaching staffs. Keita's performance shows that even brief flashes of efficiency can improve a player's chances of securing a permanent spot.